Aviation Capital’s leading aircraft lessor SMBC has increased its total order book for the A320neo family to 181 aircraft, after a signed agreement for an additional 65 A320neo aircraft including 15 A321neo and 50 A320neo.
This order for 65 is in addition to an earlier agreement, made in March, for six A320neo which will bring the total number the A320neo Family ordered last year (2018) to 71. The agreement reveals the up-sizing of 15 A320neo to 15 of the largest members of the single aisle—the A321neos—taking SMBC Aviation Capital’s total to 30.
Peter Barrett, chief executive officer at SMBC Aviation Capital, said: “Demand for the latest technology aircraft has been strong both from our existing and new customers hence our decision today to proceed with this order. In the current environment, airlines are seeking more fuel-efficient aircraft.
“The make-up of our order book positions us very well for the future to deliver on those needs. We have a strong relationship with Airbus and we look forward to working with them to continue to deliver for our customers long into the future.”
The A321neo with its ‘unbeatable’ seat mile cost, longer range and wider cabin, offers airlines the flexibility to expand their networks using wide-body cabin products on new longer haul routes, not previously possible with a single aisle.
Christian Scherer, Airbus chief commercial officer, said: “As one of the world’s leading aircraft lessors, SMBC Aviation Capital’s repeat order demonstrates its financial astuteness in making wise investments in the A320neo Family. In 2018, the direct leasing market represented over 30 per cent of our 800 worldwide deliveries – as much as Europe and the Americas combined.”
The A320neo Family incorporates innovative technology including new generation engines, Sharklets and cabin efficiency enablers, which together deliver 20 percent fuel savings by 2020.
With more than 6,500 orders received from over 100 customers since its launch in 2010, the A320neo Family has captured some 60 percent share of the market. This order, which was finalised last year (2018), is included in the year-end order figures.