Airbus shortens delivery date on its re-engined A320neo

Airbus today announced that it has brought forward the date when its re-engined A320neo will operate, from 2016 to autumn 2015.

John Leahy, Airbus’ chief operating officer, customers, said: “The exceptional market demand for the A320neo Family as airlines recognise the operational, economic and environmental advantages which the neo will deliver, has encouraged us to advance the entry into service date to October 2015.”

He said they were pushing forward the delivery date after having received more than 300 orders for the A320neo."Together with our engine partners, Pratt & Whitney and CFMI (CFM International), we are making every possible effort to bring the first A320neo aircraft into service for our customers as quickly as possible."

Customers have selected Pratt & Whitney’s PW1100G turbofan as the lead development engine for the A320neo Family, paving the way for the industrial development phase to begin in earnest. In addition, with total A320neo Family commitments now already in excess of 300, Airbus has responded to this spectacular market reception by bringing forward the entry-into-service date.

The A320neo incorporates new more efficient engines and large 'Sharklet' wing tip devices, which together will deliver up to 15% in fuel savings. This will represent some 3,600 tonnes less CO2 per aircraft, per year. In addition, the A320neo will provide a double-digit reduction in NOx emissions and reduced engine noise, thus being a good neighbour at any airport where airlines will operate the aircraft.