Fiji Airways is adding two Airbus A350-900 aircraft to its long haul fleet.
Fiji Airways Airbus A350-900 – Image, Airbus
The aircraft will be used to broaden the airline’s international network, with two Airbus A350-900 to be leased from DAE Capital – making Fiji Airways the newest operator and DAE Capital the latest customer.
The plane will be set up in a two-class configuration with 33 Business Class lie-flat bed seats (Collins Aerospace SuperDiamond) and 301 Economy seats (Recaro CL3710), with target operation between Fuji, Australia and the USA.
It will also feature in-flight entertainment powered by the THALES AVANT along with Wi-Fi connectivity too.
Fiji Airways currently operates the Airbus A330 (-200 and -300 variants) in its long haul fleet. This should help with the Airbus A350 entering the fleet due to common type rating the A350 shares with the A330
The common rating between the A350 and A330 means that pilots who are qualified and current on the A330 can already commence preparations to take the A350 XWB’s controls by undergoing “differences training” only, meaning significant cost savings & operational flexibility.
As usual, the planes will be powered by Rolls Royce Trent power plants.
In quotes
Mr. Andre Viljoen, Fiji Airways Managing Director & CEO said:
“We are extremely pleased with this selection and proud of the confirmed arrangements with Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE) Capital as the lessor, and Rolls-Royce as the engine supplier. Our teams are currently customising the aircraft to our specifications, including our world renowned livery and designs which proudly represent the people of Fiji.
“Ultimately, a luxury, world-class destination, like Fiji, deserves a luxury, world-class travel experience and that’s exactly what these aircraft will deliver. For our guests, the holiday starts the moment they board the aircraft,”
Coming towards the end of 2019
These two new aircraft will be delivered to Fiji Airways with delivering in November and December this year (2019). It’ll be interesting to see how they are used, and what new routes they open up.
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