Boost for Belfast as orders for 120 Airbus A220 aircraft announced

Airbus has announced orders for 120 A220 aircraft, the wings for which are manufactured in Belfast, by JetBlue Airways and a new Airline venture "Moxy".

The order for 60 A220-300s by JetBlue was completed in December. Airbus will produce the aircraft at a new US assembly facility in Mobile, Alabama. Construction of the plant, to be located adjacent to the existing Airbus A320 assembly facility, will begin later in January.

“JetBlue has proven there is no contradiction between economic efficiency and a high quality product,” said Christian Scherer, Airbus chief commercial officer. “Their endorsement of the A220 proves this aircraft meets those two criteria better than any alternative in its segment. Thank you JetBlue and congratulations on this big milestone in your growth.”

The start-up US airline code-named “Moxy” has also signed an order with Airbus to purchase 60 A220-300 aircraft.

Moxy is the new airline venture led by David Neeleman, an industry entrepreneurs and founder of JetBlue Airways. In addition to JetBlue, Mr Neeleman also founded Azul Brazilian Airlines and is the controlling investor in the revitalization of TAP Air Portugal.

Plans for Moxy, a low-cost airline, were unveiled at the Farnborough International Air Show in July. “The A220-300 is the right airplane for a new airline that will be focused on passenger service and satisfaction,” said Mr Neeleman. “With a low cost of operation and spacious cabin, the A220 will allow us to provide passengers with lower fares and a high quality, comfortable flying experience. The A220’s ability to operate profitably in thin, underserved markets across a broad spectrum of ranges is unique.”

The A220 is purpose-built for the 100-150 seat market. It delivers fuel efficiency and true widebody comfort in a single-aisle aircraft. The A220 brings together state-of-the-art aerodynamics, advanced materials and Pratt & Whitney’s latest-generation PW1500G geared turbofan engines to offer at least 20% lower fuel burn per seat compared to previous generation aircraft. With a range of up to 3,200nm, the A220 offers the performance of larger single-aisle aircraft.

Airbus www.airbus.com