JetBlue concludes deal for 40 Airbus A320neo
American low-cost carrier JetBlue has concluded negotiations for 40 new A320neo planes with Airbus.
With this contract, JetBlue also converts 30 of its pre-existing orders for A320s to the larger A321 model with enhanced wingtip devices called Sharklets.
In total JetBlue currently has on order 40 A320neo aircraft, 30 A321s and 22 A320s.
The airline has not yet unveiled its engine selection for the A320neo order.
“We commenced operations with Airbus aircraft nearly 12 years ago, and have since used the A320 family as the backbone of our fleet, receiving great feedback from our customers and crewmembers,” said Mark Powers, chief financial officer of JetBlue Airways.
“Our business model is focused on a sustainable growth strategy with emphasis on cost control, while providing the most comfortable experience to our customers.
“We believe the A320neo fleet with help us meet these goals.”
The A320neo family is one of the fastest selling airliners, with more than 1,200 orders and commitments since its launch in late 2010.
The new A319, A320 and A321 models feature a choice of two new engines – the PurePower PW1100G from Pratt & Whitney or the LEAP-X from CFM International.
The aircraft also feature large wingtip device known as Sharklets.
Together, Airbus says this results in a 15 per cent fuel burn reduction, corresponding to an annual carbon dioxide reduction of 3,600 metric tons per aircraft.