South African Airways orders 5 Airbus A320s
This order, combined with the airlines recent lease agreement for six new A330s from Air Castle, will deliver a modern, comfortable, reliable and cost-efficient fleet for South African Airways' domestic, regional and long-haul services. South African Airways already operates a fleet of 11 A319s, six A340-200s, six A340-300s and nine A340-600s.
“The A320 is the most modern and efficient single aisle aircraft available and with continuous improvements we are strengthening the aircraft's leadership position. It will be a key enabler in South African Airways drive for greater efficiency,†said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer, as quoted in a news report by Airbus.
The A320 Family (A318, A319, A320 and A321) is recognised as the benchmark single-aisle aircraft family. With more than 6,500 aircraft sold, and some 4,200 aircraft delivered to more than 310 customers and operators worldwide, the A320 Family is the world's best-selling single-aisle aircraft family.
The aircraft, to be delivered from 2013, will be powered by IAE engines.
