Airbus will showcase a large number of new developments at this year’s ILA Berlin Air Show (11-16th September), including the A320 with Sharklets – fuel saving wing tip devices - for the first time in Germany.

Philippine Airlines has placed a firm order with Airbus covering more than 50 aircraft consisting of single aisle A321s and widebody A330-300s, the latest High Gross Weight models. The first batch of aircraft is being ordered under a major fleet modernisation program at the airline with deliveries starting in 2013.

China Aircraft Leasing Company, a rapidly growing Hong Kong-based aircraft leasing company, has signed a memorandum of understanding for 36 current generation A320 Family aircraft. The deal includes eight A321s, the largest member of the A320 family and operators will be able to select Airbus’ new fuel saving Sharklets.

The first ‘cutting of metal’ for the Airbus A320neo has taken place in Toulouse, France. Marking the start of manufacturing of the airliner, machining began of the first engine pylon component at the Saint-Eloi Airbus dedicated pylon and nacelle factory in Toulouse.

Malaysia Airlines has taken delivery of its first A380 aircraft at Airbus headquarters in Toulouse, becoming the eighth carrier of the world’s largest and most eco-efficient airliner. The new aircraft will fly non-stop from London Heathrow to Kuala Lumpur International Airport, three times a week, from July 2nd 2012.

Boeing, Airbus and Embraer have signed a memorandum of understanding to work together on the development of drop-in, affordable aviation biofuels. The three leading airframe manufacturers agreed to seek collaborative opportunities to speak in unity to government, biofuel producers and other key stakeholders to support, promote and accelerate the availability of sustainable new jet fuel sources.