Chinese carrier Zhejiang Loong Airlines has signed a purchase agreement with Airbus for 20 A320 aircraft, including 11 A320ceo and nine A320neo jets.
The latest deal follows the memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed by two parties in September at the Beijing Airshow this year.
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Zhejiang Loong Airlines chairman Liu Qihong said that the carrier is making efforts to play a more important role in building the four-hour transportation circle around Hangzhou, which is advocated by the Zhejiang Government.
"The Airbus A320 family aircraft is ideal for us to achieve our goals with advantages in operational reliability, economics, cabin space and its commonality between different types of Airbus aircraft," Qihong said.
Airbus customers chief operating officer John Leahy said: "The A320 is the most eco-efficient single-aisle aircraft family and a world-class customer support network will provide Zhejiang Loong Airlines with an excellent platform to benefit from the economic growth in the region."
The A320neo is offered as an option for the A320 family. It comprises efficient engines and large Sharklet wing-tip devices, delivering up to 15% savings in fuel savings.
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By GlobalDataAs of November 2013, Airbus received 2,523 firms orders for A320neo from 45 customers.
Meanwhile, Zhejiang Loong Airlines has also become the latest Airbus jet operator in mainland China with the completion of its maiden commercial flight with a leased A320.
"Today is a special day for Zhejiang Loong Airlines as we start passenger operation and order 20 Airbus A320 family aircraft, which demonstrates our ambition to contribute to the economic and social development of Zhejiang province by providing efficient transportation," Qihong said.
Image: The latest deal follows the MoU signed by Zhejiang Loong Airlines and Airbus. Photo: courtesy of FIXION – GWLNSOD/Airbus SAS.
