Japan’s low-cost carrier Starflyer has taken delivery of its first directly purchased single-aisle A320 from Airbus at a ceremony held in Toulouse, France.
The airline placed a firm order for three A320s in 2011.
It plans to deploy the new aircraft to strengthen its network in Japan and regional destinations.
Starflyer president and CEO Shinichi Yonehara said that A320 has played a crucial role in the company’s success with its best-in-class fuel consumption and high reliability.
"Furthermore, thanks to the A320’s wide cabin, we will be able to continue offering excellent services to our passengers, which is key to gaining competitive advantages in Japan’s increasingly challenging market," Yonehara said.
With the latest addition, the carrier’s all-Airbus fleet of A320s has touched eight; another six aircraft are scheduled to join either through lease and direct purchase.
US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?
Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.
By GlobalDataPowered by CFM56-5B4/P engines, the airplane can accommodate up to 150 passengers in a single-class layout.
Featuring a wide cabin, the A320 family offers lower operating costs compared to rival aircraft in the single-aisle segment, according to Airbus.
Airbus COO Customers John Leahy said that with its superior performance, economics, passenger cabin comfort and quick turn-around times, the A320 is the best possible aircraft for companies committed to optimising costs while ensuring a great flight experience for the passengers.
A320 family offers a containerised cargo system that is compatible with the standard wide-body system.
About 5,300 A320 family airplanes are in operation across the globe with over 380 customers and operators.
Image: Starflyer plans to use the new A320 to strengthen its network in Japan and regional destinations. Photo: H. Goussé / Airbus SAS.
