Move Brings Airbus Commonality To Its Rapidly Expanding Network

Afriqiyah Airways has taken delivery of their first Airbus A330-200 aircraft, becoming a new operator of this aircraft type. The new A330 will seat 230 passengers in a two-class cabin and will serve long-haul operations on routes from Tripoli to Africa and Europe.

The new A330-200, the first of three ordered in 2006, will join Afriqiyah's existing all Airbus fleet of two A319s and five A320s. This brings the unique benefits of Airbus aircraft commonality to Afriqiyah, who can use the same pool of pilots, cabin crew and maintenance engineers across its entire Airbus fleet.

The airline will take delivery of a further 10 A320 family aircraft in the coming years, and has also selected the A350 XWB, with six A350-800s ordered in 2007.

"We are looking forward to introducing the A330 on our rapidly expanding network," said Ramah Ettir, CEO of Afriqiyah Airways. "Its outstanding economics and commonality with our existing fleet, will enable Afriqiyah to continue to expand our affordable and reliable services and further strengthen our market position."

"Afriqiyah Airways has achieved impressive growth since it first entered the market in 2001, and we are very proud to have been their partner during this time," said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers. "The A330 has unbeatable economic efficiency and will enable Afriqiyah's continued expansion. We look forward to continuing our partnership."

FMI: www.airbus.com