With the temperatures climbing in the UK, Farnborough Day 2 has had a few sizzlers of orders announced. Let us go through what they’ve all been doing today.
Airbus
Airbus finally got some orders on the show-book, with Delta Air Lines firming up 12 A220-300 aircraft, bringing Delta’s total firm order for A220s to 107 aircraft – 45 A220-100s and 62 A220-300s.
Mahendra Nair, S.V.P. – Fleet & TechOps Supply Chain at Delta said
“The A220-300 is economical, efficient and delivers superior performance,”
“These additional aircraft in the A220 Family are an excellent investment for our customers and employees and will be fundamental as we work toward a more sustainable future for air travel.”
Christian Scherer, Airbus Chief Commercial Officer and Head of Airbus International
“Delta was the U.S. launch customer for the A220 and it is great to announce this incremental order that demonstrates how satisfied it is with the A220, economically and from a passenger perspective,” said
“On top of that, the versatility of this aircraft with the long range and short airfield performance makes it a real winner for our customers. Thank you Delta for your confidence in further expanding your fleet with all our new generation aircraft!”
in other Airbus news, Airbus and CFM International (a 50/50 joint company between GE and Safran Aircraft Engines), are collaborating to flight test CFM’s cutting-edge open fan engine architecture with a flight test demonstrator, known as RISE.
The Flight Test Demonstrator aims to mature and accelerate the development of advanced propulsion technologies, as part of CFM’s Revolutionary Innovation for Sustainable Engine (RISE) demonstration programme, on board an Airbus A380.
The flight test campaign will be performed in the second half of this decade from the Airbus Flight Test facility in Toulouse, France. Ahead of the A380 test flights, CFM will perform engine ground tests, along with flight test validation at GE Aviation’s Flight Test Operations centre in Victorville, CA, USA.
ATR Aircraft
ATR’s airshow run continues with Japanese regional airline, ORC (Oriental Air Bridge), today signed an order for an ATR 42-600 to further support the airline’s domestic operations in providing reliable essential connectivity in Nagasaki and Fukuoka regions in southern Japan.
Kazuhito Tanaka, ORC Senior Managing Director and Representative Director, says “
We will start renewing our fleet with the most efficient, affordable and responsible aircraft in the market. With our ATR 42-600, we are investing in a responsible future in line with our strong commitment to operate in an eco-friendly and sustainable way. Our ATR aircraft will allow us to revitalise remote islands around Nagasaki Prefecture by providing lifeline connections with high efficiency and reliable services thanks to our ATR Global Maintenance Agreement. Overseas travel restrictions will be gradually relaxed. We hope many people visit Japan and enjoy the trip by ORC in the remote island of Nagasaki where some beautiful world heritages are located.”
ATR Chief Executive Officer, Stefano Bortoli, comments
“Air routes constitute an essential part of the archipelago’s domestic travel and transportation and as such taking a brand new aircraft with optimised support from the manufacturer is the perfect choice. Our aircraft have demonstrated that they are the right solution to Japan’s requirements, now and in the future. We are pleased to count ORC as one of our new customers and to be able to support them with a common purpose: to provide reliable and sustainable essential connections for communities and businesses from remote places.”
In addition, newly formed lessor Abelo announced the signature of Heads of Agreement for 10 new ATR 72-600. The leasing company is also to confirm an order for 10 ATR 42-600S (the Short Take-off and Landing, or STOL, variant) previously signed by Elix Aviation in 2019. The first deliveries of the ATR 72-600 will start in 2023, while the first STOL version will be delivered at the end of 2024.
Steve Gorman, Chief Executive Officer of Abelo, said:
“We firmly believe that turboprops are the technology of today and tomorrow and this is why we are investing in the ATR platform. This new deal is further proof of our commitment to create growth and value for regional operators, providing them with the most modern, profitable and sustainable aircraft on the market. As we are looking to expand and become the go-to lessor of turboprops, our strong links with ATR will prove invaluable.”
Stefano Bortoli, ATR Chief Executive Officer, commented:
“Abelo is a perfect partner for ATR and a force to be reckoned with in the regional aviation market. With today’s order for 20 aircraft, they demonstrate their long-term confidence in our product family and shine a light on the many opportunities that exist for operators across the globe. The financial community and leasing companies in particular have been unswerving supporters of ATR throughout the years, and will keep playing a key role.”
Boeing
Boeing has been busy, adding to its busy order book. First up is an order from 777 Partner for a new order and commitment for up to 66 737 MAX jets, including a firm order for 30 737-8-200s. This is the U.S. investment firm’s fifth order building its portfolio to 134 737 MAXs since 2021.
777 Partners has used the 737 MAX to launch a number of low-cost carriers around the world, with more to follow. Currently, its investments include Flair Airlines and Bonza Airlines.
Josh Wander, managing partner of 777 Partners.
“This new order marks another milestone in the robust growth of our aviation businesses and concurrently, our partnership with Boeing,”
“We are excited about the possibilities the MAX aircraft provide our growing group of carriers to facilitate and democratize low-cost travel around the globe while respecting our commitment to sustainable flying.”
Stan Deal, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes
“777 Partners is leveraging the cost efficiencies of the 737-8 and 737-8-200 for its diverse network of airlines, while also providing an excellent passenger experience and meeting sustainability goals,”
“777 Partners has had tremendous success establishing new carriers worldwide with the 737-8, and the 737-8-200 will allow for continued growth as an even more efficient addition to its portfolio.”
Next is an order from lessor AerCap, which is adding an additional five 787-9 jets to its portfolio. It marks the first time wide-body aircraft have been ordered at this show.
Peter Anderson, Chief Commercial Officer of AerCap said:
“AerCap is the world’s largest 787 customer and we are very pleased to strengthen that position with this order for five additional aircraft,”
“This transaction is in line with our portfolio strategy of investing in the most in-demand new technology assets and will help us continue to support our airline customers meet their sustainability commitments.”
Onto Aviation Capital Group LLC which announced the aircraft lessor is growing its 737 MAX portfolio with an order for 12 additional 737-8 jets. The order was previously unidentified on Boeing’s Orders and Deliveries website.
Today’s announcement will see ACG expand its 737 MAX order book to 34 aircraft, building upon an order for nine 737-8s in May 2022.
Mahoko Hara, ACG Executive Chair said:
“This latest incremental 737 MAX order allows ACG to offer highly fuel-efficient airplanes to our airline customers around the world,”
“These additional 737 MAX aircraft will help position ACG’s order book for a recovery in air traffic coming out of the pandemic.”
Finally, BBAM Limited Partnership (BBAM) today announced the lessor is growing its 737-800 Boeing Converted Freighter (BCF) fleet with a firm order for nine more 737-800BCF. The agreement brings BBAM’s 737-800BCF orders to 40 as strong demand for the single-aisle freighter continues.
BBAM will be the first customer to take delivery of a 737-800BCF conversion at a new conversion line set to open next year at KF Aerospace – a maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) provider in Kelowna, British Columbia
De Havilland Aircraft of Canada
De Havilland Aircraft of Canada announced new options for the Dash8-400 line, with a Design Weight Increase – allowing for an increase of up to 3,000 lb (1,360 kg) in payload (maximum zero fuel weight) and an increase of up to 2,000 lb (907 kg) to the maximum take-off weight of the Dash 8-400 aircraft.
The weight increases are offered in multiple standard categories and De Havilland Canada can also provide customized weight increases to meet the specific needs of a particular operator. The increased fuel tankering capability offers operators options to refuel at points of the network that provide greater operational flexibility and cost optimization.
In addition, an increase of 650 lb (295 kg) is being developed for the aft baggage compartment for operators who require additional baggage weight carrying capability.
Meanwhile, the cabins are also getting refreshes too, with Satellite-based Internet Connectivity from Starlink, Wireless In-flight Entertainment (IFE) System, and USB In-Seat Power.
For earlier Dash8-400, there is also An Overhead Bin Extension Solution, Pictorial illuminated signage, Upgraded interior décor and brighter LED cabin lighting.
Jean-Philippe Côté, Vice President, Programs, De Havilland Canad said:
“As we work toward relaunching the production of the Dash 8-400 aircraft, our design weight increases and cabin enhancements, which are available to retrofit in-service aircraft, illustrate De Havilland Canada’s ongoing commitment and investments to support the worldwide fleet,”
“Our solutions offer our operators many opportunities to increase operational flexibility and to provide a passenger experience that is equivalent to that on new production aircraft. In addition, our design weight increases for the Dash 8-400 aircraft will allow operators to meet the increasing passenger weight allowance requirements mandated by Transport Canada, the FAA and various other aviation authorities, without any impact on revenue.”
Embraer
The show came to life from Embraer today, firstly with an order for eight new additional E175 jets and options for 13 more. from Alaska Air Group The E175 aircraft will fly exclusively for Alaska Airlines under a Capacity Purchase Agreement (CPA) with Horizon Air. The value of the contract, including options, is USD $1.12 billion based on list price.
Horizon’s new 76-seat aircraft from this order will be delivered in Alaska’s livery and three-class configuration over the next four years starting in Q2 2023.
Mark Neely, VP Americas, Embraer Commercial Aviation, said:
“The E175 is the backbone of the US regional network, feeding airport hubs across the country as well as producing the connectivity all communities need to thrive, both economically and socially. While this market is currently under pressure, it is essential that carriers are able to provide these essential services to the entire United States. The Embraer E175, with 85% market share in its segment, is keeping the US on the move and in touch.”
Nat Pieper, senior vice president of fleet, finance and alliances for Alaska Airlines said:
“The E175 is an extremely efficient aircraft,”
“The jet is the perfect aircraft to serve Horizon’s regional network in the Pacific Northwest and beyond. Our guests will enjoy a consistent, three-class cabin experience as they travel from smaller communities to catch flights across Alaska’s larger hubs or on one of our many global airline partners.”
Onwards, Porter Airlines has placed a firm order for 20 Embraer E195-E2 passenger jets, adding to their existing 30 firm orders.
Porter’s orders with Embraer to a total of up to 100 E195-E2 aircraft, with 50 firm commitments and 50 purchase rights. In 2021, Porter ordered 30 Embraer E195-E2 jets, with purchase rights for a further 50 aircraft, worth US$5.82 billion at list price, with all options exercised.
Porter’s first delivery and entry into service are scheduled starting in the second half of 2022. The E195-E2 accommodates between 120 and 146 passengers. Configuration plans for Porter’s E2s will be revealed in due course.
Michael Deluce, President and CEO of Porter Airlines said:
“Embraer has a proven aircraft, representing the best of environmental efficiency, operating performance and passenger comfort. We are in final preparations to introduce the E195-E2 to North America, joining other global airlines already benefiting from its use. The aircraft will become core to our fleet, as Porter reshapes passenger expectations for air travel in same way we did over 15 years ago. Announcements are forthcoming that will detail our initial routes, in-flight product and other details.”
Arjan Meijer, President and CEO Embraer Commercial Aviation, said:
“Porter Airlines’ ambition for growth while delivering an upgraded passenger experience is set to shake up the industry in North America. With 50 E2s now on firm order, Porter is set to make a stunning debut as North American launch customer for the E195-E2. Their commitment today to a further 20 jets, so soon after their first order, demonstrates the unbeatable performance and economics of the E2 family; the quietest and most fuel-efficient aircraft in the segment. The E195-E2 also delivers 25% lower carbon emissions than previous generation aircraft.”
It’s a little quiet over at Airbus, isn’t it?
12 aircraft and a demonstrator are all Airbus has to show so far for this show – which compared with other suppliers, is relatively quiet – especially when you have a panel dedicated to sustainability with ITA Airways (and no additional orders to show from it).
As we close down Day 2 and head into Day 3, it’s going to be a critical day for Airbus, if they want to recapture some of the lead that it has lost to its competitors through the show – both in regional, single and wide-body sales.
As for Boeing, they’re sitting rather pretty. Even ATR is having a very reasonable show.
As the temperatures are due to drop in the UK – hopefully, the coolness will open up to the big flurry of orders Airbus is waiting for – as well as other manufacturers.
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The Porter order is particularly interesting, with the Canadian skies getting a bit crowded between Air Canada and WestJet and their multiple brands, Transat, Flair, and at least three startups in process (Lynx, the unoriginally-named Canada Jetlines, and Connect, technically US-based but concentrating on flights from the US to Toronto City, Porter’s home base.)
Not sure what the Raccoon is going to do with all those planes, is there really that much demand, even with lower-fare stimulation?
There could be a polite, maple-scented bloodbath if there’s a major economic downturn anytime soon.
Raccoons get eveywhere as we all know. We’ll have to see what routes these aircraft can fill or what untapped capacity there is.
Or else, yes. We will see a polite slap flight