Air Belgium is taking a big step forward today, as it takes delivery of its first Airbus A330-900neo.
Air Belgium A330-900neo – Image, Airbus.
This is the first of two A330-900neo the airline is taking delivery of.
This is the first of two A330-900neo the airline is taking delivery of.
They will be configured in a three-class configuration, made up of
- 30 Lie-Flat Business Class seats
- 21 Premium Economy Seats
- 235 Economy seats.
The aircraft is furnished with the Airbus Airspace cabin. All seats are equipped with the latest-generation, in-flight entertainment system, onboard Wi-Fi, and mood lighting.
Air Belgian carrier currently operates an all-Airbus widebody fleet comprising A330-200F and A340-300; the A340s will be gradually replaced by the A330neos, with planned deployments for long-haul operations from its Brussels base.
Air Belgium A330-900neo – Image, Airbus.
Beyond the A340
Air Belgium started up using Airbus A340-300 aircraft operating to a mixture of charter traffic and its own line traffic, using ex-Finnair aircraft. Since the pandemic, it pivoted to operating cargo flights on behalf of CMA CGM, whom it operates four Airbus A330-200F aircraft.
As the carrier moves beyond start-up and leaning on legacy equipment, it will have aircraft that can help it achieve its long-haul operation goals efficiently.
Considering the cost savings of going from quad-engine to twin engine aircraft (powered by twin Rolls Royce Trent 7000 engines), along with the A330’s aerodynamic improvements – it will be something that will have a positive impact on the balance sheet.
Entering Service 15th October
For those who want to fly, the Air Belgium’s first A330neo will fly every Tuesday and Friday from Brussels Airport to Mauritius as of 15 October 2021.
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