Airbushttp://v4.airbus.comAirbus news feeden-ushttp://www.airbus.com/en/utilities/rss_intro.htmlAirbus news feedhttp://www.airbus.com/img/identical/logo_blogs.gifhttp://v4.airbus.comAirbus delivers 12 A380s in 2008http://www.airbus.com/en/presscentre/pressreleases/pressreleases_items/08_12_30_a380_delivery_2008.html
The first A380 was delivered to Singapore Airlines on 15th October 2007, with five more delivered to the airline in 2008. Qantas received three A380s in 2008, and Emirates four - the most recent of which was delivered on the 30th December 2008 from the Airbus delivery centre in Hamburg, Germany.

"We have met our 2008 delivery schedule", said Tom Enders, Airbus President and Chief Executive Officer. "That was only possible thanks to a tremendous team effort. This gives us a good basis to further ramp up our production in 2009. With the in-service fleet steadily growing, our airline customers are benefiting from lower operating costs while their passengers are benefiting from unequalled cabin comfort and quietness. The environment is benefiting too. With lower emissions and noise, the A380 is the most eco-efficient aircraft in service today."

The in-service A380 fleet has flown more than 21,000 revenue flight hours in more than 2200 commercial flights carrying more than 890,000 passengers. The world's first full double-deck aircraft is now connecting four continents and flying on seven major international routes. A380s in service link Singapore with Sydney, London and Tokyo, Dubai with New York and London, and Sydney and Melbourne with Los Angeles.

Being greener, cleaner, quieter and smarter, the A380 is setting new standards for air transport and the environment. In addition to the quiet and spacious double-deck cabin, the A380 is also setting new industry-standards for the environment. The in-service experience has shown that the A380 consumes 20 percent less fuel per seat than the previous largest aircraft, representing the lowest fuel burn of any large aircraft ever.

The A380 not only complies with today's noise limits, it is also significantly quieter than any other large aircraft flying today. With a range of 8 200 nm / 15 200 km, and seating 525 passengers in a standard three-class layout while being much more eco-efficient, the A380 is the ideal aircraft to alleviate traffic congestion at busy airports, while coping with growth.

Orders for the aircraft stand at 198 from 16 customers.

Airbus is an EADS company.]]>2008-12-30 22:41:11customercorporatecommercialmiscellaneous,a300a310a320a330a340a350a380acjati,event,generalbrandinnovationorganisationpeopleethicsmiscellaneous,customersparestrainingflight_optechnical_supasset_manprocurement,ukspaingermanyfrancenajapanchinarussiaOverwhelming participation in "Fly Your Ideas" Airbus competitionhttp://www.airbus.com/en/presscentre/pressreleases/pressreleases_items/08_12_18_overwhelming_participation_fyi.html
The competition has seen an overwhelming response with over 2350 students registering to take part, and 225 teams from 130 universities completing round 1 of the competition. The geographical diversity of the entrants is remarkable, with students from 82 countries worldwide taking part* including established as well as emerging markets. In terms of the number of teams participating per country, the top 10 includes China, Singapore, UK, India, France, Italy, Germany, US, Canada and Hong Kong.

Round 1 of the competition is now closed and 86 team proposals have been selected to go through to Round 2, by Airbus experts in various fields such as R&T, environment, engineering or marketing.

The proposals look at a wide range of topics including new materials, products and/or processes as well as aircraft performance, design, manufacturing and organisational and operational performance. Details about the successful teams and their proposals will be posted on line on the "Fly Your Ideas" website after Round 2 begins on 1st January 2009.

The next stage will involve Airbus employees working with the selected teams to further develop their proposals.

"We are delighted with the response that we have received from the supporting universities and all the participating students. This confirms that, wherever you are in the world, the innovation that is at the heart of our industry can inspire the best in creative thinking" says Patrick Gavin, Airbus' Executive Vice President Engineering and patron of the "Fly Your Ideas" competition. It also underlines the sincere interest that exists to tackle environmental issues within the younger generation. "Fly Your Ideas" challenge provides a rare opportunity for students to influence the future of sustainable aviation. The quality of the proposals has been exceptionally high and we are looking forward to working closely with the successful teams to further develop their innovative ideas". he adds.

The competition was opened to college and university students from around the world, studying a degree, Masters or PhD in any academic discipline, from engineering to marketing, business to science and philosophy to design.

The teams will advance through different competitive and challenging rounds, concluding with a live final at the Paris Air Show Le Bourget in June 2009. A top prize of €30,000 will be offered to the team whose idea demonstrates the greatest potential for eco-efficiency improvement.

Airbus is an EADS company.

*A full list of successful teams and their geographical location will be available on the www.airbus-fyi.com in January 2009.]]>2008-12-19 10:57:46customercorporatecommercialmiscellaneous,a300a310a320a330a340a350a380acjati,event,generalbrandinnovationorganisationpeopleethicsmiscellaneous,customersparestrainingflight_optechnical_supasset_manprocurement,ukspaingermanyfrancenajapanchinarussiaUzbekistan Airways orders four A320s http://www.airbus.com/en/presscentre/pressreleases/pressreleases_items/08_12_17_a320_uzbekistan_airways.html
Uzbekistan Airways' A320s will feature the all-new cabin, which provides more passenger comfort in a modern and brighter environment. The aircraft will be operated on the airline's extended network of international and domestic destinations.

Uzbekistan Airways currently operates three A310s on the routes to Europe and East Asia.

"We are pleased that Uzbekistan Airways, one of the leading carriers in CIS, has one more time confirmed its confidence in the A320 Family, by increasing its orders portfolio with Airbus. This best selling single-aisle aircraft, which benefits from the most advanced technology and highest cost effectiveness, will undoubtedly contribute to the airline’s further growth," said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers.

Uzbekistan Airways was founded 1992, starting out on international routes to London, Frankfort, Delhi, Karachi, Kuala-Lumpur, Tel-Aviv and Beijing. In recognition of its performance, the airline has already received the International Fund for Aviation Safety Diploma and a Certificate from Airports International Association and "Euromarket-2000". Uzbekistan Airways operates regular flights to more than forty cities around the world such as America, Europe, Middle East, Southeast, Central Asia and the CIS and plans to increase the number of destinations in the coming years.

The A320 Family, which includes the A318, A319, A320 and A321, is recognised as the benchmark single-aisle aircraft family. Each aircraft features fly-by-wire controls and all share a unique cockpit and operational commonality across the range. With proven reliability and extended servicing periods, the A320 Family has the lowest operating costs of any single aisle aircraft. Uniquely, the A320 Family offers a containerised cargo system, which is compatible with the worldwide standard wide-body system.

Around 6,300 Airbus A320 Family aircraft have been sold and more than 3,600 delivered to more than 280 customers and operators worldwide, making it the worlds best selling commercial jetliner ever. Twelve carriers in the entire region currently operate some 120 Airbus aircraft with over 160 aircraft still to be delivered in the near future.

Airbus is an EADS company.]]>2008-12-17 16:00:16customercorporatecommercialmiscellaneous,a300a310a320a330a340a350a380acjati,event,generalbrandinnovationorganisationpeopleethicsmiscellaneous,customersparestrainingflight_optechnical_supasset_manprocurement,ukspaingermanyfrancenajapanchinarussiaAirbus undertakes Blended-Winglet evaluation on A320http://www.airbus.com/en/presscentre/pressreleases/pressreleases_items/08_12_17_a320_blended_winglet.html
The objective of these tests and the subsequent evaluation is to identify both the performance and economic benefits that these devices could offer for Airbus aircraft. In conjunction with follow-up analyses, they will provide data on the overall viability of the devices and help to determine whether API's technology could be considered for an integrated Airbus programme.

Furthermore, this evaluation is being carried out as part of our wider goal of extending the market-leading eco-efficient credentials of Airbus aircraft. Research flight testing of two different winglet designs was performed two years ago and valuable experience was gained. Since that time, Airbus has been working to absorb and build on these lessons.

Patrick Gavin, Airbus' Executive Vice President Engineering says, "We continue to work on further improving the eco-efficiency of all our aircraft. These early evaluation tests are a milestone that need to be achieved long before implementation. The A320 Family is the most efficient in its class, and we continuously study potential improvements to keep it unmatched for the years to come."

In this latest initiative, tests will be performed on the flight test A320, MSN1 - the same aircraft that hosted flight tests of previous winglet proposals. In this way, Airbus continues its work on evaluating wing-tip designs for the A320 Family and assessment of innovative ways of reducing the impact of the higher structural loads, without incurring major structural weight increases.

Airbus leads the way in wing-tip design with every current Airbus product, including the A320, fitted as standard with drag-reducing wing-tip devices.]]>2008-12-18 15:51:32customercorporatecommercialmiscellaneous,a300a310a320a330a340a350a380acjati,event,generalbrandinnovationorganisationpeopleethicsmiscellaneous,customersparestrainingflight_optechnical_supasset_manprocurement,ukspaingermanyfrancenajapanchinarussiaBAA Jet Management is first with A318 Elite in Asia http://www.airbus.com/en/presscentre/pressreleases/pressreleases_items/08_12_05_baa_jet_a318elite_asia.html
The Airbus A318 Elite - the first to be registered in the People's Republic of China - is now based at Shenzen and is available for VVIP charter.

"This Airbus A318 Elite is the first in Asia to offer customers something that they cannot get with other high-end business jets - much greater comfort, space and ease of movement around the cabin," says BAA Managing Director Ricky Leung. "And with seating for 18 passengers in our A318 Elite, we can also carry larger business groups and families than any other corporate jet currently available for VVIP charter in the region today," he adds.

The Airbus A318 Elite is the newest member of the Airbus ACJ Family and offers the widest and tallest cabin of any business jet in its class, as well as all the benefits of a modern and elegant design.

"Asia has long been an important market for Airbus - it's where we won our first airliner sale outside Europe - so it's great to see BAA becoming our first operator in the region for our modern A318 Elite corporate jet," comments Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers, John Leahy. "The longer you fly, the more important your comfort becomes, so the A318 Elite really does have a lot to offer," he adds.

The A318 Elite is the most affordable aircraft in the Airbus ACJ Family, and features a cabin created in co-operation with Lufthansa Technik. Its interior comprises several different seating zones in a spaciously large living area, as well as a very practical and private office that converts into a bedroom, complete with ensuite bathroom.

Part of the world's most modern airliner family, the A318 Elite features a robust airframe and systems, proven in millions of hours of airline service as a member of A320 Family, from which it is derived.

The Airbus ACJ Family has many corporate jet "firsts" to its credit. These include being the first with fly-by-wire controls, the first with centralised maintenance for faster and more efficient trouble-shooting, the first to offer Category 3B autoland, and the first to make extensive use of weight-saving carbonfibre. Airbus ACJ Family has more than 100 firm orders to its credit, and is now flying on every continent, including Antarctica, highlighting its versatility.

BAA is one of the leading aviation companies in Asia, offering a complete range of business jet services, including charter, aircraft management, flight support and aircraft sales and acquisitions. It will also manage three Airbus ACJs and two A350 Prestiges.

Airbus is an EADS company.]]>2008-12-05 15:43:52customercorporatecommercialmiscellaneous,a300a310a320a330a340a350a380acjati,event,generalbrandinnovationorganisationpeopleethicsmiscellaneous,customersparestrainingflight_optechnical_supasset_manprocurement,ukspaingermanyfrancenajapanchinarussiaAirbus Corporate Foundation takes off http://www.airbus.com/en/presscentre/pressreleases/pressreleases_items/08_12_02_corporate_foundation.html
Social responsibility coupled with a greater responsibility to take care of the environment has been at the heart of the Airbus business activities for a long time. Starting off with a budget of 2,5 million euros, the Airbus Corporate Foundation will focus its support on the three themes of humanitarian and community support, youth development and the environment.

In the field of environment the foundation is tasked to focus on protecting, improving and increasing awareness of the environment, and supporting projects with a particular focus on biodiversity. The foundation will also help young people to develop the skills they will need later in life - in particular fostering cross cultural and global citizenship. The third theme of the foundation is to provide aid and relief in cases of natural disaster and reaching out to develop local communities where Airbus is present.

"Airbus is becoming an international company on a global scale. As our business has expanded over the years, so has our charitable support grown to create and undertake projects relevant to local communities around the globe. By committing our time and expertise and by focusing our humble resources, Airbus and its employees can support to develop and maintain vibrant, sustainable communities helping to make the world a better place," Tom Enders said on the occasion of the first meeting of the Board of Directors.

The foundation will be a driver for engaging employees in projects in their own communities. Through its employees’ participation globally, Airbus will promote and share the values that have contributed to Airbus' success to date and which will ensure a bright future: innovation and a pioneering spirit, developing talent around the world and creating value with less environmental impact.

"We are certainly inspired by the social engagement of many Airbus employees who are involved in actions of general interest and have supported our numerous humanitarian aid actions undertaken in the past," Tom Enders said. "We count on their active involvement in the future and the unique support which can be provided by our network of international customers and suppliers."

The Board of Directors has secured the support of four international external members bringing in their specific experience and know-how in the different fields on which the Foundation will focus its activities: Kriss Akabusi, Marcel Rufo, Manuel Toharia Cortes and Henning Voscherau.

Aviation is a key vector for global economic and social development and an essential resource for humanitarian efforts worldwide. Airbus will harness its capabilities and partner with its customers to e.g. use Airbus aircraft to provide humanitarian and community support to combat poverty, transport humanitarian aid material, provide aid to victims of natural catastrophes.

More information on the Airbus Corporate Foundation can be found on www.airbus.com.

Airbus is an EADS company.

Note to editors:

Short description of the four international external members of the Board of Directors of the Airbus Foundation:

Kriss Akabusi - famous for his achievements in athletics (three Olympic medals), Akabusi, living and working in London and of Nigerian parents, is the founding Director and Chairman of TACT (The Akabusi Charitable Trust), a non-governmental organization in Nigeria, which donates money and expertise to partners on the ground in the areas of health, education, social enterprise, water and sanitation.

Marcel Rufo - after having started as a Doctor in Neurology and affected by the death in children, Rufo turned to psychiatry. Working at the Sainte-Marguerite hospital of Marseilles as senior registrar he became manager of the House of the teenagers of the Cochin Hospital in Paris. He is also a well-known author of books on child and teenager psychology and animates a radio programme in France on the problems of childhood and adolescence.

Manuel Toharia Cortes - As an expert on popularisation of Science, Cortes is active in many areas linked to science, environment and youth development. Currently director of the Science Museum Prince Felipe and director of the City of Arts and Sciences, both in Valencia, Spain, he also is scientific journalist for the radio station "Cadena Ser". Previously he was director of the Science Museum of La Caixa in Madrid and an active science journalist for national television, radio and newspapers. He has published around 30 books.

Henning Voscherau - Supporter of the Stadthaushotel HafenCity organization, which tries to reintegrate disabled people into society and of the youth-centre in Steilshoop (socially disadvantaged area) in Hamburg. First Mayor (Erster Bürgermeister) of the Free Hanseatic City of Hamburg, President of the "Bundesrat" (Upper House of Parliament), President of the Joint Constitutional Commission of the German "Bundestag" (Lower House of Parliament) and "Bundesrat", President of the Conciliation Committee of the German Bundestag and Bundesrat, he is also involved in several projects preventing drug-addiction.]]>2008-12-02 15:47:03customercorporatecommercialmiscellaneous,a300a310a320a330a340a350a380acjati,event,generalbrandinnovationorganisationpeopleethicsmiscellaneous,customersparestrainingflight_optechnical_supasset_manprocurement,ukspaingermanyfrancenajapanchinarussiaArik Air receives first A340-500http://www.airbus.com/en/presscentre/pressreleases/pressreleases_items/08_12_01_a340500_arik_air.html
The new aircraft is the first of three A340-500s ordered by Arik Air for use on international long-haul routes to London, New York and Houston. Powered by Rolls-Royce Trent 500 engines, the carrier's new A340s will offer the best possible passenger comfort in a two-class configuration.

"Our new A340-500 is the first newly built long-range aircraft delivered to a Nigerian airline in more than 20 years, making it the first airline in Africa to operate this variant. It will allow us to launch intercontinental flights, linking Nigeria with the US and the UK, using state of the art technology," said Sir Arumemi-Johnson, Chairman of Arik Air.

John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer Customers said, "The A340-500 offers unparalleled passenger comfort combined with outstanding performance and range. We are proud that Arik Air will use the A340 to develop their international network. The introduction of this aircraft will be a catalyst for the development of the Nigerian aerospace industry and we are looking forward to working with Arik Air in the West African region".

The A340-500 is the member of Airbus' A330/A340 Family that flies furthest, and is the most modern aircraft in the 250-375-seater segment flying today. The A340-500, operates the world's longest-range commercial air routes, the longest linking Singapore non-stop with New York, an 18-hour flight, and as such offers passengers the latest in comfort and in-flight services. With four engines, the A340 offers unrivalled operational economics and flexibility on ultra-long-haul non-stop routes over remote oceans and terrains such as mountain ranges and the Polar Regions.

Airbus is an EADS company.]]>2008-12-01 15:48:59customercorporatecommercialmiscellaneous,a300a310a320a330a340a350a380acjati,event,generalbrandinnovationorganisationpeopleethicsmiscellaneous,customersparestrainingflight_optechnical_supasset_manprocurement,ukspaingermanyfrancenajapanchinarussiaComlux orders extra Airbus A320 Prestigehttp://www.airbus.com/en/presscentre/pressreleases/pressreleases_items/08_11_17_a320prestige_comlux.html
The new Airbus A320 will help to meet demand from the important Middle East market, and complements an A318 Elite and an ACJ that are already operated on VVIP charters by Comlux. Comlux has now placed orders for a total of nine aircraft, comprising four A318 Elites, two Airbus ACJs, two A320 Prestiges and one A330-200 Prestige.

"We were one of the first to recognise the need for even more space and comfort than traditional business jets, and because the Airbus ACJ Family has the widest and tallest cabin in its class, we can offer a lot more than other charter companies," says the Head of Comlux Aviation's VVIP Charter Division Ettore Rodaro . "The outstanding reliability of our Airbus ACJ Family is another plus that our customers appreciate, and we can also offer them a lot of experience in managing their VIP Airbus aircraft," he adds.

"Comlux Aviation has built a well deserved reputation for top-class service, and we like to think that the Airbus ACJ Family cabin's elegant ambiance, spaciousness and ease of movement has been a contributory factor," says Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers, John Leahy. "We have a great product in the Airbus ACJ Family, and as operators such as Comlux make it more and more visible to customers, demand will continue to grow," he adds.

Comlux Aviation has operated its first Airbus ACJ for several years, and last year became the first to put the A318 Elite into service, flying it an impressive 1,200 hours in its first year of service. It has three Air Operator Certificates (AOCs) from the airworthiness authorities in Malta (EASA), Switzerland and Kazakhstan, allowing it to best serve its customers in different regions.

In addition to the widest cabin in its class, Airbus' ACJ Family also provides a very quiet environment, making it especially attractive to high-end travellers - particularly on long flights when a lot of time is spent in the aircraft.

Airbus created the Airbus A320 product line - from which the ACJ Family is derived - as a brand-new design, and has continued to improve it with new technology. Examples include the introduction of Liquid Crystal Displays (LCDs) in the cockpit, and a new and brighter cabin lining that brings even more quietness.

Airbus' A320 Family is the world's best-selling airliner product line, with around 6,300 orders and more than 300 customers and operators. This popular base helps to make the Airbus ACJ Family a good investment, because of its heritage, and makes it an increasingly popular choice with individuals, companies and governments.

Airbus is an EADS company.]]>2008-11-21 16:23:05customercorporatecommercialmiscellaneous,a300a310a320a330a340a350a380acjati,event,generalbrandinnovationorganisationpeopleethicsmiscellaneous,customersparestrainingflight_optechnical_supasset_manprocurement,ukspaingermanyfrancenajapanchinarussiaAl Jaber Aviation orders more Airbus ACJ family aircraft http://www.airbus.com/en/presscentre/pressreleases/pressreleases_items/08_11_17_acj_al_jaber_aviation.html
"Our Airbus ACJ Family aircraft will offer private travel in unprecedented comfort and style, providing families and companies with a new way to fly," says Al Jaber Group Chief Executive Officer Mohammed Al Jaber. "In addition to the huge improvement in space and comfort, high-end travellers in the Airbus ACJ Family will also benefit from separate cabin-zones and unmatched freedom of movement in flight," he adds.

"The Al Jaber group has a proven track record of success in construction, logistics, manufacturing and shipping, and is well placed to extend this into business aviation by combining its entrepreneurial skills with the modern Airbus corporate jet family" says Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers, John Leahy. "Al Jaber Aviation is also the first Middle East-based company to offer Airbus corporate jet travel to the VVIP market," he adds.

Airbus' A318 Elite is the newest and most affordable Airbus corporate jet, and features a stylish and practical cabin created by Lufthansa Technik, with seating for up to 18 passengers. The Airbus ACJ is derived from the popular A319 airliner, and can be equipped with seating and facilities tailored to customer needs.

Both aircraft feature the widest, tallest and most spacious cabin of any single-aisle corporate jet - their cabin cross-section is almost twice as wide as that of traditional business jets - making them the new top-of-the-line in high-end travel.

And because the A318 Elite and Airbus ACJ are part of the world's most modern airliner family, they also deliver a stream of benefits to customers. These include a robust long-lasting airframe that holds its value well, modern and reliable systems proven in millions of hours of airline service, and an advanced aerodynamic design powered by modern and efficient engines.

The ACJ Family, which comprises the A318 Elite, ACJ and A320 Prestige, also delivers many benefits to the pilots and mechanics that fly and maintain them. These include a modern and user-friendly cockpit with practical pull-out tables, modern fly-by-wire controls, Category 3B autoland as standard, centralised maintenance linked to every aircraft system, and large outward-opening cargo doors.

Airbus corporate jetliners have won more than 150 orders to date, comprising more than 100 Airbus ACJ family aircraft and around 50 VIP widebodies. They are flying on every continent in the world, including Antarctica.

Airbus is an EADS company.]]>2008-11-24 21:51:52customercorporatecommercialmiscellaneous,a300a310a320a330a340a350a380acjati,event,generalbrandinnovationorganisationpeopleethicsmiscellaneous,customersparestrainingflight_optechnical_supasset_manprocurement,ukspaingermanyfrancenajapanchinarussiaAir Arabia confirms the purchase of 10 new Airbus A320shttp://www.airbus.com/en/presscentre/pressreleases/pressreleases_items/08_11_12_a320_air_arabia.html
Sheikh Abdullah Bin Mohammed Al Thani, Chairman, Air Arabia said, "Following Air Arabia's expansion plans and the new hub in Morocco expected to operate next year, expanding the fleet size is certainly a need. Our vision is to be one of the world's leading budget airlines in terms of profit margin, innovation, reputation, and operational excellence, and having the A320 at the heart of our fleet is the best and quickest way we can achieve this."

"We are pleased Air Arabia has once again confirmed their trust in our A320 family. With this decision, Air Arabia recognises the technological superiority of the A320, which also has the lowest operating costs in its class. The A320 also has the widest fuselage giving added operational efficiency and passenger comfort including increased storage volume," said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers.

Sharjah based Air Arabia already operates 16 A320s, and serves a network of more than 44 destinations across the Middle East, Indian Subcontinent, Central Asia and North Africa. With the establishment of a second hub in Casablanca in early 2009, Air Arabia will extend its network to Europe, Middle East and Africa through a joint venture with Moroccan privately owned airline Regional Airways. The new airline will be called Air Arabia Maroc. Launched in 2003, Air Arabia has served more than 5 million passengers over the past four years.

The A320 Family, which includes the A318, A319, A320 and A321, is recognised as the benchmark single-aisle aircraft family. Each aircraft features fly by wire controls and all share a unique cockpit commonality across the range. With proven reliability and extended servicing periods, the A320 Family has the lowest operating costs of any single aisle aircraft. Over 6,300 Airbus A320 Family have been sold and over 3,600 delivered to more than 210 customers worldwide, making it the worlds best selling commercial jetliner ever.

Uniquely, the A320 Family offers a containerised cargo system, which is compatible with the world wide standard wide-body system.

Airbus is an EADS company.]]>2008-11-12 15:42:28customercorporatecommercialmiscellaneous,a300a310a320a330a340a350a380acjati,event,generalbrandinnovationorganisationpeopleethicsmiscellaneous,customersparestrainingflight_optechnical_supasset_manprocurement,ukspaingermanyfrancenajapanchinarussiaGrupo Marsans places a firm order for a total of 61 aircraft, including four A380s and ten A350shttp://www.airbus.com/en/presscentre/pressreleases/pressreleases_items/08_11_07_grupo_marsans_firm_order.html
On the occasion of the announcement, Gonzalo Pascual, President of Grupo Marsans, said: "This important order allows Grupo Marsans to put into action its mid and long term development plan, to enhance our position on the short and long haul sector by incorporating the most efficient aircraft available on the market today and tomorrow. In addition to the overall fleet enhancement this represents, we are particularly proud that, with the A380, we will become the first A380 customer and operator in Spain and Latin America."

"This order, which basically covers all our product range, including the most recent ones such as the A380 and A350, represents a major vote of confidence. It will allow Grupo Marsans to benefit from the operational commonality of the Airbus product range in the best way possible," said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer Customers. "With this purchase, Grupo Marsans, who control various airlines in Europe and Latin America, will have the most efficient and modern aircraft fleet available to further strengthen and develop their operations both within Spain, regionally and internationally", he added.

Being greener, cleaner, quieter and smarter, the A380 is already setting new standards for air transport and the environment. In addition to offering unequalled levels of passenger comfort, space and quietness in the cabin, the A380 has unmatched levels of operating costs and fuel efficiency, consuming less than three litres per passenger per 100 kilometres. Its new-generation engines and superb aerodynamic performance mean that the A380 not only complies with today's noise limits, it is also significantly quieter than any other large aircraft flying today. With a range of 8 200 nm / 15 200 km, and seating 525 passengers in a standard three-class layout while being much more eco-efficient, the A380 is the ideal equipment to alleviate traffic congestion at busy airports, while coping with growth. Including this contract, total firm orders for the aircraft now stand at 196 from 17 customers.

The A350 XWB (Xtra Wide-Body) Family is Airbus' response to widespread market demand for a series of highly efficient medium-capacity long-range wide-body aircraft. With a range of up to 8,300 nm / 15,400 km, it is available in three basic passenger versions: the A350-800 accommodating 270 passengers, the A350-900 seating 314, and the A350-1000 for 350 passengers in a typical three-class layout. The A350 XWB has the widest fuselage in its category, offering unprecedented levels of comfort, the lowest operating costs and lowest seat mile cost of any aircraft in this market segment. With power supplied by two new generation Rolls Royce Trent XWB engines, the A350 XWB Family is designed to confront the challenges of high fuel prices, rising passenger expectations, and environmental concerns. Total firm orders for the aircraft, including this contract, now stand at 463 from nearly 30 customers.

With a true wide-body fuselage allowing very high comfort standards, the A330-200 is able to accommodate seat and class configurations to suit the diverse customer requirements. It has a range of up to 6,750 nm / 12,500 km with a full passenger load. Its large under-floor cargo holds can also carry standard pallets and containers side-by-side. It also has the excellent operational flexibility necessary to serve a wide range of route structures, providing operators with very low operating cost per seat. Its proven record of economy and superior passenger comfort provides operators with a significant competitive advantage in the market today. Orders for the A330 stand at around 1000.

The A320 Family, which also includes the A318, A319 and A321, is recognized as the benchmark in the single-aisle aircraft market and has over 6,300 orders and more than 3,600 deliveries to its credit.

Airbus is an EADS Company.]]>2008-11-07 15:25:50customercorporatecommercialmiscellaneous,a300a310a320a330a340a350a380acjati,event,generalbrandinnovationorganisationpeopleethicsmiscellaneous,customersparestrainingflight_optechnical_supasset_manprocurement,ukspaingermanyfrancenajapanchinarussiaBOC Aviation orders 20 A320 family aircrafthttp://www.airbus.com/en/presscentre/pressreleases/pressreleases_items/08_11_04_a320_boc_aviation.html
"Our latest orders reflect ongoing demand for leased aircraft from the A320 Family at both full service and low cost airlines around the world," said Robert Martin, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, BOC Aviation. "The decision to acquire these additional aircraft also represents a sound investment in a proven asset, offering long term value for our business."

"The order from BOC Aviation is another vote of confidence in the proven appeal of the A320 Family, especially as airlines around the world look to replace older aircraft with newer, more efficient models," said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers. "It also reflects the proven underlying value of the A320 Family as a long term investment for the aircraft leasing community."

BOC Aviation, formerly known as Singapore Aircraft Leasing Enterprise (SALE), is the largest Asia-based aircraft leasing company. Altogether, the company has now ordered 98 single aisle aircraft directly from Airbus, of which 58 have already been delivered. The lessor also has five A330-200F freighters on firm order for future delivery.

The A320 Family, which includes the A318, A319, A320 and A321, is recognised as the benchmark single-aisle aircraft family. Each aircraft features fly-by-wire controls and all share a unique cockpit and operational commonality across the range. More than 6,300 Airbus A320 Family aircraft have been sold and more than 3,600 delivered to some 280 customers and operators worldwide, making it the worlds best selling commercial jetliner ever.

With proven reliability and extended servicing periods, the A320 Family has the lowest operating costs of any single aisle aircraft. Uniquely, the A320 Family offers a containerised cargo system, which is compatible with the worldwide standard widebody system.

Airbus is an EADS company.]]>2008-11-04 17:46:19customercorporatecommercialmiscellaneous,a300a310a320a330a340a350a380acjati,event,generalbrandinnovationorganisationpeopleethicsmiscellaneous,customersparestrainingflight_optechnical_supasset_manprocurement,ukspaingermanyfrancenajapanchinarussiaAirAsia X takes delivery of first A330http://www.airbus.com/en/presscentre/pressreleases/pressreleases_items/08_10_31_a330_delivery_airasiax.htmlAirAsia X, the long haul low cost unit of the Malaysia-based AirAsia Group, has taken delivery of its first new A330-300. The aircraft was handed over at a special ceremony at Airbus headquarters in Toulouse today in the presence of the Malaysian Minister of Transport, Dato’ Ong Tee Keat.
 
The new aircraft is the first of 25 A330-300s ordered by AirAsia X for the development of its long haul operation, linking Kuala Lumpur with destinations in Australia, North Asia, the Middle East and Europe, complementing the existing AirAsia network.
 
Powered by Rolls-Royce Trent 700 engines, the carrier’s new A330 offers accommodation for 383 passengers in a two-class layout, with 355 seats in Economy and 28 in the airline’s new XL premium class.
 
“The A330 is the perfect aircraft to enable the AirAsia Group to extend its winning low cost model to the long haul market”, said Azran Osman Rani, Chief Executive Officer, AirAsia X. “With its incredibly low fuel burn, the clean and green A330 will enable us to improve cost efficiency and grow the overall air travel market by tapping a new segment of passengers through the offering of the best possible fares”.
 
“The delivery of the first A330 for AirAsia X marks another milestone in the close partnership between Airbus and the AirAsia Group,” said Tom Enders, Airbus President and Chief Executive Officer. “Combining proven passenger appeal with the lowest operating costs of any mid-size widebody aircraft in service today, the A330 is uniquely placed to allow AirAsia X set a new standard in long haul low cost travel”.
 
In total, the AirAsia Group has placed firm orders with Airbus for 200 aircraft, comprising 25 A330s for AirAsia X and 175 single aisle A320s for the short haul operation.
 
The twin engine A330 is one of the most widely used widebody aircraft in service today. To date, Airbus has won more than 1,000 orders for the various versions of the aircraft. More than 550 A330s have already been delivered and the aircraft is currently flying with over 70 airlines worldwide.
 
Airbus is an EADS company.
]]>2008-10-31 14:53:38customercorporatecommercialmiscellaneous,a300a310a320a330a340a350a380acjati,event,generalbrandinnovationorganisationpeopleethicsmiscellaneous,customersparestrainingflight_optechnical_supasset_manprocurement,ukspaingermanyfrancenajapanchinarussiaAirbus takes part in the European City of Science at the Grand Palais in Paris, from 14 to 16 November 2008http://www.airbus.com/en/presscentre/pressreleases/pressreleases_items/08_10_28_european_city_of_sience.html
Organised by the Ministry of Higher Education and Research during the French Presidency of the European Union, the European City of Science will be the launch event for the 2008 Science Festival.

In order to satisfy the expectations of an ever-greater audience passionate about the sciences and technologies of the future, Airbus has chosen to exhibit eight Research and Technology projects - in progress or already completed - in the framework of far-reaching European or international partnerships, such as:
  • ILDAS (In-Flight Lightning Strike Damage Assessment System) to monitor aircraft lightening strike.

  • AWIATOR (Aircraft Wing with Advanced Technology Operation) illustrates the research in the area of wing aerodynamics for designing greener aircraft (reduced noise and fuel consumption).

  • Clean Sky Smart Fixed Wing Aircraft is one of the components of the Clean Sky research programme aiming to reduce significantly the environmental impact of air transport (integration of new power-plant concepts and of technologies to improve aerodynamic performance).

  • SILENCE® has led to the development of a new rivet-free - and therefore quieter - engine air intake, used on the A380.

  • ALCAS focuses on the manufacture of composite material structures, such as the centre wing box, aiming to optimise the manufacturing process and choose the best-suited materials in order to lower production and maintenance costs, while introducing weight savings in the structures.

  • OPTIMAL examines environmental issues, concentrating on operational aspects such as improving aircraft trajectories in the vicinity of airports in order to reduce the noise footprint on the ground.

  • The NACRE project on the aircraft of the future studies new concepts for tomorrow's aircraft, taking into account user demands, respect for the environment and technological advances.

  • The VIVACE project (Collaborative Engineering at the service of aircraft) has made it possible to improve cooperation between partners with different languages and cultures by putting in place specific tools. It has laid the foundations for a "collaborative" engineering environment particularly well suited to the context of the extended enterprise.
Sensitive to its position as an industry leader, Airbus strives to be an eco-efficient enterprise. To that end Airbus is the first aeronautics company in the world to have earned the ISO 14001 environmental certification for all production sites and products for the entire life cycle. Airbus seeks to ensure that air transport continues to be an eco-efficient means of transport, delivering economic value while minimizing its environmental impact.

Airbus is an EADS company.]]>2008-10-28 15:16:43customercorporatecommercialmiscellaneous,a300a310a320a330a340a350a380acjatiproduct_gen,event,generalbrandinnovationorganisationpeopleethicsmiscellaneous,customersparestrainingflight_optechnical_supasset_manprocurement,ukspaingermanyfrancenajapanchinarussiaAirbus celebrates first anniversary of A380 entry into servicehttp://www.airbus.com/en/presscentre/pressreleases/pressreleases_items/08_10_25_a380_eis_anniversary.htmlToday, the A380, flagship of the 21st century, celebrates the first anniversary of its entry into service. The first A380 was handed over to Singapore Airlines on 15th October 2007. Their new “Queen of the Skies” entered service on 25th October 2007 with a special charity flight between Singapore and Sydney. Since then the aircraft has also entered service with Emirates Airline and Qantas Airways. A total of nine aircraft have been delivered to date, with six in operation with Singapore Airlines, one with Qantas and two with Emirates who received their second new generation large aircraft yesterday. 

To date, more than 700,000 passengers have flown on the world’s first full double-deck aircraft, which is now connecting four continents and flying on seven major international routes. A380s in service link Singapore with Sydney, London and Tokyo, Dubai with New York, and Sydney and Melbourne with Los Angeles.

Altogether the in-service fleet has recorded more than 15,000 revenue flight hours in more than 1,600 commercial flights, with a very high level of in-service reliability, setting new benchmarks in terms of performance, eco-efficiency and low operating costs. In addition to the unequalled levels of passenger comfort and quietness inside the spacious double-deck cabin, outside the A380 is also setting new industry-standards for the environment. Indeed, the in-service experience has shown that the A380 consumes 20 percent less fuel per seat than the previous largest aircraft, representing the lowest fuel burn of any large aircraft ever. 

“Singapore Airlines is very pleased with the performance of the A380 in its first year of operations” said Chew Choon Seng, Singapore Airlines Chief Executive Officer. “ We are now flying six of them, linking Singapore with Sydney and Tokyo daily, and with London twice every day. The A380 has lived up to its promises and proven to be reliable and fuel efficient. Importantly it has been a hit with our customers who enjoy its spaciousness, quietness and comfort, as well as the new cabin products and features we introduced with it. Our crews enjoy working on the aircraft and the A380 has advanced the Airline’s reputation for services that other airlines talk about.”

Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al-Maktoum, Emirates Chairman & Chief Executive said: "In addition to the lower impact on the environment, its new-generation engines and superb aerodynamic performance mean that the A380 not only complies with today's noise limits, it is also significantly quieter than any other large aircraft flying today and produces only half as much noise on take-off and landing as the former largest commercial aircraft. It is a perfect fit for Emirates' future eco-efficient fleet, and that is why we have ordered 58 of them." 

Geoff Dixon, Qantas Chief Executive Officer said: “With a range of 15 200 km the A380 gives us huge benefits. The A380 is the ideal equipment to alleviate traffic congestion at busy airports, while coping with growth. It is a bigger aircraft, which is more efficient and better at handling frequencies on certain routes. This 21st Century flagship ticks a wide range of boxes for us.”

“Today is a special anniversary for Airbus,” said Airbus President and Chief Executive Officer Tom Enders. “It shows that with perseverance, hard work and close collaboration with airlines the A380 meets all its promised performance objectives. It brings real benefits to our customers as the aircraft’s efficiency and dispatch reliability is really unprecedented.” 

To date, total orders and commitments for the A380 are 202 from 17 customers. 

Airbus is an EADS company .

]]>2008-10-25 14:42:24customercorporatecommercialmiscellaneous,a300a310a320a330a340a350a380acjatiproduct_gen,eventevent_gen,generalbrandinnovationorganisationpeopleethicsmiscellaneouscorporate_gen,customersparestrainingflight_optechnical_supasset_manprocurementservices_gen,ukspaingermanyfrancenajapanchinarussiaworldwide_genCroatia Airlines to acquire four additional A320 family aircrafthttp://www.airbus.com/en/presscentre/pressreleases/pressreleases_items/08_10_22_a320_croatia_airlines.html
Croatia Airlines' A319s will feature the all-new cabin which provides more passenger comfort in a modern and brighter environment. The ordered aircraft will accommodate 132 passengers in a two-class configuration. Powered by CFM International CFM56-5 engines, the aircraft will be deployed on the airline's extended European and domestic networks.

"This strategic decision will allow us to meet the future demand of our customers with the most modern, fuel efficient and environmentally friendly aircraft," said Ivan Misetic, Croatia Airlines President and CEO.

"We are very pleased that Croatia Airlines, one of the largest and most successful airlines in the region, has further confirmed its confidence in the A320 Family by expanding its order backlog with Airbus," said Airbus Chief Operating Officer Customers, John Leahy. "This shows the airline’s satisfaction and clearly demonstrates the high demand for the A320's advanced technology and efficiency in the years to come."

The A320 Family, which includes the A318, A319, A320 and A321, is recognised as the benchmark single-aisle aircraft family. Each aircraft features fly-by-wire controls and all share a unique cockpit and operational commonality across the range. More than 6,300 Airbus A320 Family aircraft have been sold and more than 3,600 delivered to some 280 customers and operators worldwide, making it the worlds best selling commercial jetliner ever.

With proven reliability and extended servicing periods, the A320 Family has the lowest operating costs of any single aisle aircraft. Uniquely, the A320 Family offers a containerised cargo system, which is compatible with the worldwide standard wide-body system.

Airbus is an EADS company.]]>2008-10-22 17:51:11customercorporatecommercialmiscellaneous,a300a310a320a330a340a350a380acjati,event,generalbrandinnovationorganisationpeopleethicsmiscellaneous,customersparestrainingflight_optechnical_supasset_manprocurement,ukspaingermanyfrancenajapanchinarussiaAirbus kicks off long term flight test research into new engine architectures with Pratt and Whitney’s Geared Turbofan concepthttp://www.airbus.com/en/presscentre/pressreleases/pressreleases_items/08_10_14_geared_turbofan_concept.html
Airbus is working with all major engine manufacturers and will conduct similar tests with them in the coming years. Moreover, through such tests, Airbus will obtain data to validate the fuel burn and CO2 emissions that could be achieved with each new engine technology.

The dedicated company-owned A340-600 testbed aircraft based in Toulouse, which has been extensively used for various technology evaluations, is already equipped with a full set of flight test instrumentation, and since Airbus has full understanding of the aircraft's aerodynamic performance, it can easily assess the benefits of new technologies when integrated into the airframe.

Airbus EVP Strategy and Future Programs, Christian Scherer, commented, "Airbus is already delivering the world's most eco-efficient aircraft. Sensitive to our position of being an industry leader, it is imperative to us that we continuously explore all technology developments to achieve our ambitious targets today and in the future."

The trials on Airbus' A340 test aircraft will focus on the PW1000G's design elements like the fan-drive gear system that incorporates a gearbox capable of absorbing greater power levels than those previously achieved on other engine designs. The trials with Airbus follow P&W's own flight test campaign on a Boeing 747 aircraft. Airbus will be the first aircraft manufacturer to obtain flight test results from the PW1000G, and these will contribute to Airbus' long-term R&D assessment of available technologies.

Airbus is an EADS company.]]>2008-12-10 14:09:50customercorporatecommercialmiscellaneous,a300a310a320a330a340a350a380acjati,event,generalbrandinnovationorganisationpeopleethicsmiscellaneous,customersparestrainingflight_optechnical_supasset_manprocurement,ukspaingermanyfrancenajapanchinarussia