Another Episode of Movin' Metal Gives the Point to Airbus

Saudia Group signed off on an order for 93 A321neo planes and a dozen A320neo aircraft.

Saudia will put them into business with their low-cost carrier flyadeal (all lower case, gotta give the marketers their due) as they get their legs under them. Saudia remains the flag carrier for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, allowing flyadeal to go out and compete with the rest of the smaller guys running narrowbody aircraft. All in all, Saudia Group has 144 aircraft on order throughout the A320neo family.

Airbus took a moment to weigh in and strut their stuff at the recent Future Aviation Forum in nearby Riyadh. From the look of things, Boeing hasn't had similar news just yet, giving Airbus another point in their everlasting tit-for-tat battle for aerospace market dominance. A trio of big names were on hand to publicize the deal in the Saudi's own backyard, an essential part of any aviation expo. Saleh bin Nasser AIJasser, Saudi Arabia's Minister of Transport and Logistic Services; Ibrahim Al-Omar, the 'Director General' of Saudia Group, and Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Executive VP of Airbus Commercial Aircraft.
 
"Saudia has ambitious operational objectives to meet growing demand. We are increasing flights and seat capacity across our existing 100+ destinations on four continents, with plans for further expansion," said Saudia chief Al-Omar. "The progress of Saudi Vision 2030 is attracting more visits, tourists, entrepreneurs, and pilgrims each year. This motivated our decision to secure this significant deal, which will create jobs, increase local content, and contribute to the national economy." 
 
"The new additions of the A320neo family aircraft will play a vital role in contributing to Saudi Arabia' ambitious Vision 2030 plan,' added the Airbus EVP. "It will enable Saudia Group's strategy to advance the Kingdom's aviation capabilities while enabling both airlines to benefit from the A320neo Family's exceptional efficiency, superior economics, highest level of passenger comfort as well as lower fuel-burn and emissions."

FMI: www.airbus.com