Iberia has signed a memorandum of understanding with Airbus for eight A330-300 aircraft.

The carrier – part of International Airlines Group – has also secured options on a further eight aircraft from the A330 family.

The A330s, which will be delivered between autumn 2012 and spring 2014, will replace up to 16 Airbus A340 aircraft in the Iberia long-haul fleet.

IAG chief executive Willie Walsh said: “The A330 is an excellent aircraft, both in terms of comfort and operational performance, and it will be a welcome addition to Iberia’s fleet.

“It also provides us with considerable cost benefits due to its lower fuel consumption and commonality with Iberia’s existing long haul aircraft.”
With the new aircraft and options, IAG will have the flexibility to determine the overall size of Iberia’s long haul-fleet and capacity in future.

Iberia’s current long-haul fleet consists of 18 A340-300 and 17 A340-600 aircraft.

“We are very proud that IAG has selected the A330 Family in its very first purchase” said John Leahy, Airbus chief operating officer, customers.

“Iberia’s selection proves again that the A330 Family is the preferred choice among operators for an eco-efficient, mid-size, long-haul aircraft thanks to its low operating costs and outstanding comfort for passengers.”

Cathay Pacific

Also today, Cathay Pacific Airways placed a firm order with Airbus for 15 more A330-300s.

Scheduled for delivery from 2013, the aircraft will join the airline’s existing A330 fleet flying on services across the Asia-Pacific region.

As with the airline’s existing A330 fleet, the newly ordered aircraft will be powered by Trent 700 engines from Rolls-Royce.

“The A330 has proved itself to be an extremely efficient and versatile aircraft for Cathay Pacific, flying on Asian regional services and longer operations to the Middle East and Australia,” said Tony Tyler, chief executive, Cathay Pacific Airways.

“Our latest order reflects our confidence that the A330 will continue to meet our needs well into the future, both economically and operationally, as a key part of our fleet.”