With Day Two of the Paris Air Show been and gone, let us see who is travelling in Indigo’s footsteps – or at least firming up orders that have been marked as “undisclosed”.
As usual, we’ll be going in Manufacturer Name, so we’re as fair as we can be.
And enjoy the quotes – there’s plenty of them today.
Airbus
PAL goes 10 across for nine A350s
Philippine Airlines (PAL) has finalised a purchase agreement with Airbus for the firm order of nine A350-1000.
The A350-1000 has been selected under the Philippine carrier’s Ultra Long Haul Fleet project and will fly on non-stop services from Manila to North America, including to the East Coast of the US and Canada. The new aircraft will join two A350-900s already in service at the airline.
PAL’s A350-1000 fleet will be able to accommodate 380 passengers in a three-class layout, with separate cabins for Business Class, Premium Economy and Economy Class.
Flight has discovered that these will be the first A350s to have a 10-abreast configuration in economy class.
Captain Stanley K. Ng, President and Chief Operating Officer of Philippine Airlines, said:
“This order will see PAL operating one of the youngest and most modern widebody fleets in Asia. We selected the A350-1000 to give PAL the power to match capacity closely to predicted demand on both the very longest routes to the North American East Coast but also on our prime trunk routes to the West Coast and potentially to Europe as well. At the same time the aircraft will use significantly less fuel than older aircraft of a similar size, which also brings an important reduction in carbon emissions.”
Lucio C. Tan III, President & Chief Operating Officer, PAL Holdings Inc. said:
“At Philippine Airlines we are committed to offering our passengers the best possible travel experience. These state-of-the-art aircraft will enable us to give them the convenience of nonstop flights on long range routes in a comfortable passenger cabin where our cabin crew can do what they do best – extend gracious service and world-class Filipino hospitality. The A350-1000 is our “Mission Aircraft” to connect the world and boost the Philippine economy and society.”
Christian Scherer, Airbus Chief Commercial Officer and Head of International said:
“This order is another strong endorsement of the A350 as the world’s long range leader. In terms of non-stop flying capability, efficiency and passenger comfort it is proven to be best in class. It also brings significant reduction in emissions and an immediate contribution to industry sustainability goals. And in the larger widebody category, the A350-1000 has set a standard of its own, with the lowest operating costs and emissions for intercontinental service. We thank Philippine Airlines for its ongoing confidence in Airbus and look forward to working with the airline as the A350 becomes the flagship of its widebody fleet.”
What’s that Skippy? More A220s for Qantas?
Qantas Group has finalised an incremental order for nine A220-300s, bringing its total backlog for the single-aisle type to 29 aircraft.
Qantas will take delivery of its first A220 at the end of this year and will operate the type primarily on its domestic route network.
Christian Scherer, Airbus Chief Commercial Officer and Head of Airbus International said:
“We are pleased to announce this incremental order from Qantas. Best in class, the A220 will be the perfect platform for a domestic network that includes everything from short hops to flights of five hours and beyond. Combining efficiency, comfort and longer range, the A220 will also contribute from Day 1 to the carrier’s far-reaching Climate Action Plan.”
Air India firms up its Airbus order
Air India has firmed up its order for 250 Airbus aircraft and selected an Airbus maintenance and digital package to power the airline’s transformation and growth strategy.
The aircraft order includes 140 A320neo and 70 A321neo single-aisle aircraft as well as 34 A350-1000 and six A350-900 wide-body jets. The airline had signed a Letter of Intent to acquire these aircraft in February 2023.
Campbell Wilson, CEO & MD of Air India, said:
“Our ambitious fleet renewal and expansion programme will see Air India operate the most advanced and fuel-efficient aircraft across our route network within five years. We are proud to be working with all our partners, including Airbus, in this journey to rebuild a global airline which reflects India taking a more confident posture around the world.”
Christian Scherer, Chief Commercial Officer and Head of International at Airbus added:
“We are excited to be a key partner in the renaissance of the Flying Maharaja. Under the leadership of the Tata Group and a focussed new management, this is one of the most ambitious projects in the airline business today. We are proud that the efficiencies, comfort and range capability offered by our latest generation aircraft will contribute to the process, as Air India reclaims its rightful position as a world-class premium carrier. The Airbus services package is a perfect future-oriented choice that will form a core element of Air India’s transformation,”
Volaris reveals itself from the unspecified airline kimono
Volaris has disclosed 25 A321neo from a purchase agreement signed in October 2022. These aircraft bring Volaris total backlog to 143 A320neo Family aircraft.
Enrique Beltranena, Volaris President and Chief Executive Officer said:
“These A321neos will support our long-term business viability and sustainability strategy, while moving us closer to operating an all-NEO fleet by 2028. Our 143 aircraft backlog demonstrates Volaris financial strength and will guarantee our growth in the Mexican market as well as in routes to the United States and Central America,”
Christian Scherer, Chief Commercial Officer and Head of Airbus International added
“The A321neo’s superior performance and efficiency will continue to drive Volaris’ network growth. As the fleet grows the airline will be well positioned to meet future demand, especially in the Mexican leisure market. We look forward to working closely with Volaris as it continues to spread its wings,”
ATR Aircraft
ATR are out of the gates, with two interesting bits of news to kick off their show.
Mandarin Airlines adds further aircraft
Mandarin Airlines, the regional subsidiary of China Airlines have announced the signature of a firm order for six ATR 72-600 to be delivered from the end of 2023 through to 2025.
The turboprops will join the airline’s existing fleet of nine ATR 72-600 to serve the demand of the Taiwanese market.
Kao Shing-Hwang, Chairman of Mandarin Airlines.
“Expanding our ATR fleet will enable us to add capacity on existing routes and create new services to continue stimulating the local economy and tourism across Taiwan with the lowest emission regional aircraft”,
“The unbeatable fuel efficiency of the ATR 72-600, further reinforced by the new PW127XT engine certified for 50% SAF blend, along with its versatility and comfort, make it possible for us to offer our passengers comfortable, reliable, affordable and responsible air services.”
Nathalie Tarnaud Laude, Chief Executive Officer of ATR, added:
“Since they introduced ATRs in their fleet in 2017, Mandarin Airlines have been able to increase flight frequencies on existing routes, opening up new opportunities for their communities affordably and responsibly. The airline’s renewed confidence is the most gratifying testimony of the value that our aircraft bring to their operations and a great sign of rebound of the Asian market.”
ATR Highline’s first customer confirmed
Malaysian airline Berjaya Air has signed a Heads of Agreement for two ATR 72-600. Both aircraft will be in an “All-Business Class” configuration, which is part of the new ATR HighLine premium collection of cabin interiors. They will have a 1-1 layout with individual outboard side stowage. Deliveries are planned for 2025 and 2026.
Berjaya’s owner Tan Sri Vincent Tan said:
“Berjaya’s vision is to offer passengers a unique VIP experience, with the highest level of comfort and operational efficiency, while also focusing on sustainability. Our ATR aircraft equipped with the ATR HighLine collection will help us make the most preserved destinations accessible to our guests with the most comfortable, responsible and future-minded aircraft on the market.”
Nathalie Tarnaud Laude, Chief Executive Officer of ATR, added:
“We fully share Berjaya Air’s vision that there should not be any compromises between passenger experience, accessibility and sustainability. Their premium positioning further proves the versatility of our aircraft, which uniquely enable operators to benefit from exceptional comfort, unrivalled airport accessibility and low emissions on regional routes.”
Additional bits of ATR
ATR also confirms the following in a media statement, that other aircraft were being ordered:
- 3 ATR 72-600 from Azul, plus options for 2 additional aircraft
- 8 ATR 72-600 from 3 undisclosed customers
- 3 ATR 42-600 from 2 undisclosed customers.
Boeing
It seems that Boeing is ready to talk big deals after a quiet day yesterday.
Additional sales to China Airlines
Boeing and China Airlines today finalised an order for eight 787-9 Dreamliners.
This firm order, which was previously posted to Boeing’s Orders and Deliveries website as unidentified, follows the airline’s first-ever order for 16 787-9s announced last year.
The airline also will take the 787-10 as it converts six 787-9s to the 787-10, the largest member of the 787 family.
Air Algérie confirms MAXs and BCF’s
Air Algérie today confirmed an order for eight fuel-efficient 737-9 aircraft.
The Algerian flag carrier also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for two 737-800 Boeing Converted Freighters (BCF) to meet increasing cargo demand in the region.
Yacine Benslimane, general manager of Air Algérie said:
“This order will contribute to the development of the Air Algérie fleet,”
“This acquisition is part of Air Algérie’s fleet extension strategy through the purchase of new aircraft.”
Stan Deal, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes added:
“The 737-9 is ideally suited for Air Algérie’s regional network, providing it with additional capacity and flexibility to operate seamlessly with its existing 737 fleet,”
“In addition, the highly reliable and capable 737-800 Boeing Converted Freighters will enable Air Algerie to capture growing cargo opportunities, expanding beyond its passenger business.”
Lessors back into the buying game
Avolon, the international aircraft leasing company, today announced an order for 40 737 MAX aircraft. These will be the Boeing 737 MAX 8 variant.
Andy Cronin, CEO of Avolon, said:
“Today’s announcement reaffirms our long-standing partnership with Boeing and our support for their 737 MAX program. We are confident in the long-term demand from our customers for the 737 MAX, and this order extends our delivery pipeline out to 2030,”
“The transitioning of the global fleet to more fuel-efficient new-technology aircraft is a priority for our industry, and we are looking to play a leading role by supporting airlines achieving their sustainability objectives.”
Stan Deal, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes added:
“This order demonstrates the popularity of the 737-8 among the leasing community and the demand they are seeing from their customers for this airplane model,”
“Avolon has a long-standing relationship with the 737 MAX program and took delivery of the 1,000th 737 MAX last year. We look forward to building on this strong relationship with a key leasing partner as they grow their Boeing portfolio of airplanes.”
And don’t forget Air India
Air India announced they have finalised an order for up to 290 new Boeing jets and expanded services., with the deal signed.
The order, which includes 190 737 MAXs, 20 787 Dreamliners and 10 777X jets with options for 50 737 MAXs and 20 787 Dreamliners, is Boeing’s largest order in South Asia and highlights its 90-year partnership with Air India.
De Havilliand of Canada
It’s been all about services today at DHC, as Luxair, Croatia Airlines and Widerøe, as they sign on or extend their membership of its Component Solutions Program (“DCS Program”).
It allows its customers to access to part availability and helps with cost predictability so they can focus on running their day-to-day operations with minimal related interruptions,
Embraer
Whilst there’s been more chatter about eVTOLs, there’s been some hard orders from the Embraer Chalet of the more conventional kind, which is what we will focus on.
Binter signs for further E2 aircraft
Binter of the Canary Islands has placed a firm order for six Embraer E195-E2 aircraft. This order will bring Binter’s E2 fleet to 16 jets when delivered. The airline configures the jets in a single-class layout with 132 seats.
Rodolfo Núñez President of Binter, said,
“The E2 has been a game changer for Binter. Our guests love the aircraft, especially how quiet it is. Performance in terms of Fuel burn and maintenance has also been better than advertised. As we continue to grow, the E2 has proved to be the perfect aircraft to lead our continued growth.”
Martyn Holmes, CCO of Embraer Commercial Aviation, said,
“The best orders are repeat orders, and this is the fourth E2 order from Binter. Embraer thanks Binter for their partnership and congratulates the airline on their continued success.”
Because the scope clause is joyful – American Airlines sign for more E175s
American Airlines has signed a firm order with Embraer for seven new E175s.
The aircraft will be operated by American’s wholly-owned subsidiary, Envoy Air, with deliveries to begin in Q4 2023. It will grow the fleet to 141 aircraft by the end of 2024.
As to why the E175? Scope clause. It seems airlines can’t buy anything bigger…
Pedro Fábregas, President & CEO of Envoy said:
“Our journey with Embraer began 25 years ago with the ERJ145, and our partnership continues to grow today as we take these additional aircraft and grow our all-Ejet fleet. Not only are our customers happy with the aircraft, but the jet’s outstanding performance and reliability has allowed us to continue to provide excellent service to American Airlines and the thousands of customers we serve every day”,
Arjan Meijer, CEO and President, Embraer Commercial Aviation added
“We thank American Airlines and Envoy for their long partnership with Embraer.”
“It’s hard to exaggerate the impact this hardworking aircraft has every day, delivering essential, dependable service, and an economic lifeline to communities across the North American market. The E175 is the backbone of the US regional network, with over 620 aircraft sold, and 86% market share since 2013”.
Azorra joins the leasing party
Embraer has revealed the order announced in January 2023, with an undisclosed customer, for 15 E195-E2 – was placed by Azora
In the run-up to the Paris Air Show, E2 momentum has continued with Embraer and Azorra announcing several key aircraft deals – six E2s for Royal Jordanian, nine E190-E2s for Scoot, and ten E195-E2s for SKS Airways.
Ron Baur, President of Azorra said:
“Based on our success in placing the E2, we are pleased to increase our firm commitment with Embraer from 20 to 35 aircraft,”
“Azorra has a long-standing partnership with Embraer and owns and manages a portfolio (including our orderbook) of more than 100 Embraer E1, E2, and Phenom aircraft, making Azorra one of the largest lessors of Embraer aircraft. We believe the operating economics of the E2, combined with its environmentally friendly and quiet engines, make the E2 an ideal aircraft for our airline customers.”
Martyn Holmes, CCO of Embraer Commercial Aviation said:
“Azorra has made a big impact on our market in a short time. They are proving to be great partners for Embraer and our airline customers. As the global leader in regional aircraft, Embraer is pleased to see the momentum our market is enjoying; and thanks Azorra for their help in building on the opportunities we are seeing across the world,”
And Avolon too
Avolon has signed a sale and leaseback agreement with Porter Airlines for 10 new Embraer E-195-E2 aircraft.
The new aircraft will support Porter’s expansion of routes within Canada and further into the North American market. The deal also marks the first of Embraer’s advanced new E2 aircraft to join Avolon’s fleet.
Porter introduced the E195-E2 to commercial service in February 2023 and plans to expand its fleet in coming years, with 50 firm orders and the option to purchase 50 additional aircraft, in a 132-seater configuration.
Paul Geaney, President and Chief Commercial Officer, Avolon commented:
“Porter Airlines is renowned for its customer experience and has exciting plans for the expansion of its E2 fleet. We are delighted to welcome them as a customer and look forward to partnering on their future growth. Our decision to add the E2 to our portfolio is supported by its growing operator base, with the transaction further diversifying our portfolio whilst offering attractive returns. The E2 is a modern fuel-efficient aircraft that offers excellent operating performance, competing effectively with other smaller narrowbody platforms.”
Jeffrey Brown, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Porter Airlines, commented:
“The E2 is an incredible addition to Porter’s fleet, offering best-in-class seat cost economics and providing an ideal platform to deliver the truly differentiated in-flight economy passenger experience that Porter is known for. This means treating everyone with care and offering complimentary amenities like WiFi, and beer and wine served in glassware throughout the cabin. We are excited to partner with Avolon and value their reputation and expertise in aircraft leasing, which makes them an ideal new partner.”
Martyn Holmes, Chief Commercial Officer, Embraer Commercial Aviation, said,
“Embraer is excited to welcome Avolon to the E2 program, another sign that the momentum the E2 is enjoying in the market is set to continue. Adding a lessor of Avolon’s stature to the E2 program is a further endorsement for this great family of aircraft, and the value it delivers to operators and owners alike.”
There’s also some news involving Reacro – but we’ll be covering that separately, as it’s much more interiors focused.
Other bits and bobs
Boeing introduced something rather interesting for those tracking Sustainable Air Fuel – a tool that tracks expected sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) capacity over the next decade.
It is based on data collected by BloombergNEF, the Dashboard aggregates total SAF capacity announcements by suppliers on a global scale and can filter anticipated supply by production pathway, location and other metrics. The tool is accessible on Boeing’s new Sustainable Aerospace Together hub at www.sustainabilitytogether.aero.
Pratt and Whitney retain Volaris as a customer for its incoming A320neo aircraft, covering 64 aircraft.
Boom made some noises about its Overture project, but nothing concrete about timelines.
Onto Day 3
Let us not beat around the bush, the volume and size of orders at this Paris Air Show have been big this year, with Indigo’s order yesterday and Air India converting its Letters of Intent into actual orders.
And it seems the lessors are smelling money too, with them starting to unveil mass orders – in the case of Avolon and Azorra. That leaves plenty of room for ALC and others to muscle in.
Who knows, tomorrow they might…
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