Aer Lingus Selects A350 XWBs, A330s In Interim

Airbus has a message for its detractors: don't count out the planemaker, or its upcoming the A350 XWB. Irish national carrier Aer Lingus recently placed its largest long-haul order in history... and it gave the order to Airbus. This week, the European planemaker signed for six A350 XWBs, along with six additional A330-300s.

Aer Lingus' new A350 XWBs will be deployed on the airline's long haul network to the United States and other new routes, and will replace some of the carrier's earlier A330s. Airbus tells ANN the six new A330-300s will handle those routes in the short term, until the first of the A350 XWBs are delivered.

"The A350 XWB fits in with our ambitious plans to expand existing routes and to open up new ones from our hub in Dublin. We already have an all Airbus fleet and the new aircraft will fit in seamlessly," said Aer Lingus Chief Executive Dermot Mannion.

Both the A350 XWB and the A330-300s will be in a two class configuration, featuring Aer Lingus' new premier class product.

"We are absolutely delighted Aer Lingus has chosen the A350 XWB to modernise and expand their Airbus fleet. It will not only bring Aer Lingus unbeatable operating costs but also offer their customers the cutting edge in passenger comfort. The A330s continued winning economics and design is re-enforced by the order'" said John Leahy, Chief Operating Officer, Customers.

Through April 2007, Airbus had a total of 104 orders for the A350 XWB, which is scheduled to enter service in 2013.

FMI: www.airbus.com, www.aerlingus.com