Air India has signed an agreement with ALAFCO, a Kuwait-based aircraft leasing company, for leasing 14 Airbus A320neo aircraft. The delivery of aircraft is likely to start from early next year.
The national carrier signed the pact on the inaugural day of the India Aviation 2016 in Hyderabad.
The agreement was signed between Air India chairman and managing director Ashwani Lohani and the vice chairman and ALAFCO chief executive Ahmad Al Zabin in the presence of CEO of leading aircraft engine manufacturer, CFM, Paul Abanga and Philippe Combet, vice-president of sales from Airbus.
This induction will augment Air India’s capacity in the domestic market. Air India already has strong infrastructure maintenance facilities for the Airbus A320 family. The partnership between Air India and Airbus dates back to 1989 when the erstwhile Indian Airlines became the launch customer to induct the Airbus A320, the airline said in a press statement.
"This is a very important partnership for Air India. The A320 aircraft will add strength to our existing fleet and enhance our role as a major player in the domestic market," Lohani said.
These A320neo aircraft will come fitted with the new generation CFM leap engines which will reduce noise and emissions, enhance the operational efficiency and reduce fuel consumption by at least 15 per cent while offering the passengers the best in class comfort.
Air India and CFM enjoy a long standing partnership as CFM engines are fitted on the existing A320 family aircraft.
BW Reporters
Haider Ali Khan is an alumnus of IIMC. He holds a degree in English Journalism from the prestigious campus. His passion includes Aviation, Technology, Politics and Sports.
