DUBAI Airshow 2009

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Thu, 19 Nov 2009 19:38:00 +0100

Welcome at Airbus for the Dubai Airshow's 2009 edition! We enjoyed sharing this event with you...

Airbus' Middle East Material and Logistics centre enhances its support capabilities

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 17:34:00 +0100

One of the top priorities at Airbus is keeping its customer airlines’ jetliner fleets flying productively, day after day.

To meet the requirements of a growing aircraft presence in the Middle East region, Airbus’ Dubai-based Material and Logistics Centre is now expanding the scope and range of services offered to operators.

This modern facility is located in the Dubai Airport Free Zone and provides 3,700 square metres of climate-controlled storage capacity.

Since its opening in April 2008, the centre’s capabilities have been expanded with the setup of an airworthiness-approved avionics and electronics repair facility, the sub-lease of a storage area for hazardous materials, the growth of a “vendor village” that now hosts representatives from 11 Airbus suppliers, and a newly-established repair station for tools and ground support equipment.

“The Material and Logistics Centre is part of Airbus’ strategy to be even closer to its customers in supporting their aircraft,” said Joerg Helmerichs, the senior director of material, logistics and suppliers for the Dubai-based Airbus Middle East subsidiary. “This dynamic region is home to a growing number of Airbus jetliners – from the single-aisle A320 Family to the A380.”

A major focus of the Material and Logistics Centre is the A380, which is now in service with Emirates, whose home base is situated at the adjacent Dubai International Airport. Emirates is the A380’s largest single customer with 58 aircraft on order – five of which are currently in service. Other Middle East customers for Airbus’ 21st century flagship jetliner include Etihad Airways and Qatar Airways.

The facility’s inventory of items ranges from brackets and placards to wing and tail control surfaces. Certain components are extra large: as an example, an A380 wing flap is nine metres long and weighs 4.1 metric tonnes.

One of the Material and Logistics Centre’s newest additions is an avionics and electronics repair shop, which is capable of Level 3 repair – involving the replacement of parts on motherboards. The repair shop is owned by asscom Middle East, an international solutions provider in mission-critical equipment and spares, and its establishment was the result of a close collaboration with Airbus.

“The airlines are extremely pleased to have an electronics and avionics repair capability for Airbus aircraft in the region, so this is an important new service that is now available to them,” Helmerichs said. “It represents another step in how we are committed to meeting the services, support and logistics needs of our customers for the long term.”

The A380 is a "game-changing" aircraft in both good and challenging times

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 13:42:00 +0100

The A380 is attracting increased route load factors and higher market share in today’s challenging economic conditions, and will position its airline operators to accommodate future traffic growth and develop major routes as the worldwide economy recovers.

This was the message of John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer – Customers, at the 2009 Dubai Airshow, where he provided an A380 outlook as the 21st century flagship expands its presence with international customers.

The 19 A380s in airline service today have carried some three million passengers and performed more than 8,600 revenue flights – accumulating over 82,000 revenue flight hours. Current operators are Dubai-based Emirates, Qantas in Australia and Singapore Airlines.

“These airlines are seeing that the A380 is a ‘game-changing’ aircraft as it boosts both direct and connecting traffic, increases market share and improves load factors,” he explained. “In addition, it is pulling premium traffic from flights operated with competing aircraft, which is valuable anytime, and is particularly important in today’s down market.”

Looking to the future, Leahy sees the A380 playing a key role in providing the additional capacity required as global traffic volume continues to increase.

“Every 15 years since the dawn of the jet age, the number of revenue passenger kilometres has doubled. We are hitting limits on capacity, and larger aircraft must be available,” he said. “The airline industry will need larger and more efficient aircraft. The A380 is the answer: moving more people more comfortably, burning less fuel, and creating less noise and emissions.”

Emirates’ home base of Dubai is expected to be ranked fourth in terms of operations for very large aircraft in the A380 category by 2028. This airline is flying five of its 58 A380s currently on order, and is demonstrating quick-turnaround ground processing during revenue flights.

“The turnarounds with Emirates – including the gate arrival, passenger loading and unloading, cabin cleaning, catering, aircraft refuelling and pushback – is being done in less time than a 747, which carries 100-150 fewer passengers than an A380,” Leahy said. “This is because the A380 is designed for the 21st century, with an emphasis on quick and efficient ground handling.”

A strong showing for Airbus at the 2009 Dubai Airshow

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 10:50:00 +0100

Airbus today wrapped up a high-profile participation in the 2009 Dubai Airshow, where two new airlines were added to its firm order book with signings for A380s and A350s, an existing VVIP charter operator ordered a 10th Airbus corporate jet, and three additional customers announced memorandum of understanding agreements for A330s and A320s.

Another milestone at this biennial event was Airbus' launch of new-generation "Sharklets" wingtip devices for the A320 Family - its latest new enhancement that will maintain the single-aisle jetliner product line's competiveness for many years.

This activity came as Airbus reinforces its presence in the dynamic Middle East market, where operators currently are flying a full range of the company's aircraft from the A320 single-aisle jetliner family to the 21st century A380 flagship. Airbus' Middle East market share has grown from 10 per cent in 1985 to 49 per cent today.

Additionally, the global industrial base for Airbus has now been extended to the United Arab Emirates, with Abu Dhabi's Mubadala assigned the fabrication and assembly of composite components, and Emirates Precision Engineering responsible for the machining of metallic parts. This work has an estimated value of approximately $1 billion over a timeframe of 10 years.

Airbus' new firm orders inked at the Dubai Airshow were for Air Austral's two A380s, which will be operated from the Indian Ocean's La Reunion island to Paris in an 840-seat single-class configuration; and for Ethiopian Airlines' 12 A350-900s, bringing total sales of the A350 XWB aircraft family to 505.

Also announced was an order from Comlux for a third Airbus Corporate Jetliner (ACJ), making this Swiss-based operator the largest Airbus ACJ Family customer.

A Comlux A318 Elite configured for VVIP charters was displayed during the five-day Dubai Airshow, along with an Airbus prototype A380 - which made its appearance as part of a multi-stop international demonstration tour.

The venerable A300B4 freighter is proudly displayed at the Dubai Airshow

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 10:45:00 +0100

Among the many airplanes in the 2009 Dubai Airshow’s outdoor exhibit area, one stands out as a symbol of the durability and reliability that has become a trademark of Airbus jetliners.

This aircraft is an A300B4 operated by MIDEX Airlines, a new United Arab Emirates carrier that is operating six of these venerable Airbus freighters. The A300 was Airbus’ first production jetliner, becoming the cornerstone for its highly successful family of commercial aircraft. A total of 821 A300s and its shorter-fuselage A310 versions were ordered from Airbus, with many of these still in operation worldwide.

MIDEX Airlines’ business strategy is to provide cargo services linking the Indian subcontinent region with the United Arab Emirates and Europe. The company operates the A300B4-203F version, which has a large forward fuselage cargo door for the loading of pallets, containers and other material on its main deck.

After acquiring the six A300B4s freighters, MIDEX Airlines spent an additional $10 million each to bring them up to top condition – both inside and out.

Operating from Al Ain International Airport near Dubai and Abu Dhabi, the A300B4 freighters are in constant operation on flights between the United Arab Emirates and such destinations as Colombo, Delhi, Dhaka, Karachi and Mumbai, according to MIDEX Airlines Director General Jassim Albastaki. About 30 per cent of this cargo is distributed within the United Arab Emirates, while the remaining 70 per cent is put on MIDEX’ larger freighter aircraft for the trip to the airline’s European cargo hub at Paris’ Orly Airport.

“Our A300B4s are proving to be excellent aircraft that are highly efficient on routes of three to four hours, carrying more than 40 tonnes of cargo each into Al Ain International Airport,” he said. “These are heavy-duty freighters, and I think they are some of the best aircraft to come from the Airbus production line.”

MIDEX Airlines is part of the MIDEX Group, which is a major international freight integrator. The group has acquired a 40 per cent share of the French company, Heuliez, a turnkey developer and producer of niche-market cars and components for automobile manufacturers. Heuliez is now building a series of innovative electric cars, which MIDEX is helping to market for use as airport service vehicles and in other applications. Several of these unique electric cars are displayed on the main cargo deck of MIDEX Airlines’ A300B4 at the Dubai Airshow.

Dubai: The Airbus hub in the Middle East

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 18:29:00 +0100

The heart of Airbus’ Middle East presence is Dubai, where the company has developed close relationships with all of the regional market players, including Emirates Airlines, Etihad Airways, Qatar Airways, Air Arabia, Gulf Air, D.A.E, Mubadala, and others.

Airbus also has made a major commitment to providing logistics, support, training and services for the Middle East, along with a portion of Africa, as part of its long-term partnership vision with airlines and other operators in these dynamic air travel markets.

Located at the entrance to the Dubai Airport Free Zone are the offices of Airbus Middle East, a subsidiary that is in charge of all Airbus commercial activities for the region – including marketing, sales, contracts and customer relations activities. This also is the home to the worldwide sales and marketing team for Airbus Executive and Private Aviation.

Across the street is the Airbus-owned Total Airline Services Company (TASC), which provides consulting services and technical assistance, while the Airbus Middle East Material and Logistics Centre is situated nearby inside the Dubai Airport Free Zone – offering more than 3,700 square metres of climate-controlled storage space and office facilities. Airbus also has a team of pilot instructors assigned to a training centre operated jointly by Emirates and CAE.

“Airbus has always understood the importance of creating long-term relationships with airlines in the Middle East, where mutual trust and confidence, slowly built over the years, is extremely important,” said Christophe Fanjat, the head of operations for Airbus Middle East. “This is symbolised by our very close cooperation with our customers in the region – which we consider not as customers, but more as partners.”

Fanjat has been representing Airbus in Dubai for many years, starting with the Support Division, where his activities included Emirates’ introduction of the A330-200 as a launch customer for this aircraft. He then was involved in the creation of TASC, and later helped in the establishment of Airbus Middle East, which became operational in 2006.

Airbus wins commitments worth US$5.3 billion at Dubai Air Show

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 11:20:00 +0100

During the 2009 Dubai Air Show, Airbus announced commitments across its broad product range covering a total of 33 aircraft, valued at over US$5.3 billion. These commitments include firm orders for 15 aircraft worth more than US$3.6 billion, plus memorandum of understanding (MoU) agreements for a further 18 aircraft totalling around $1.7 billion.

The highlights of the show included firm orders for Airbus’ newest products: from Air Austral for two A380s worth $655 million, and from Ethiopian Airlines for 12 A350-900s worth $2.9 billion. In addition, Comlux placed a firm order for one Airbus Corporate Jet (ACJ) worth $75 million.

The MoU commitments included: 10 A320s worth $770 million from Yemenia Airlines; four A320s plus two A330-200s together worth $670 million from Senegal Airlines; and one A320 plus one A330-200 worth $258 million from Nepal Airlines.

In addition to these, Airbus announced in Dubai the launch of its new “Sharklet” large wingtip devices, specially designed for the A320 Family to reduce its fuel burn by around 3.5 percent and improve both payload-range and climb performance. Air New Zealand is the launch customer for the Sharklets which are specified for its future A320 fleet.

John Leahy, Chief Operating Officer, Customers commented: “We had a good airshow – better than many expected. But our industry is not out of the woods yet. There will be a difficult winter ahead of us, but with the deals we made in Dubai and the interest in our products that we saw here, spring may not be that far away.”

Airbus’ success is founded on innovative design, which has given it the world’s most modern aircraft family in every category from 100 to 525 seats.

Senegal Airlines makes commitment for A320s and A330s

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 10:56:00 +0100

Senegal Airlines, the new national carrier of the Republic of Senegal, which is majority owned by the Senegalese private sector, has signed a letter of intent to purchase four A320 family aircraft and two A330s. The airline, which will replace Air Senegal International, will launch services in early 2010 from its hub in Dakar to destinations in Africa and Europe.

“The operational efficiency and passenger comfort offered by the A320 family and A330 will enable Senegal Airlines to prosper and grow into a major player in the African Aviation market and become a key partner in the economic development of our country.” said Mr Karim Wade, the Honorable Senior State Minister of International Cooperation, Urban and Regional Planning, Infrastructure and Air Transport for Senegal.

“Airbus is honoured to support the launch of Senegal Airlines," said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer Customers. "By chosing the eco-efficient Airbus family of aircraft, Senegal Airlines can exploit the many advantages Airbus commonality, giving them the best possible platform for development and growth.”

The Airbus aircraft family offers cockpit and operational commonality across the family, allowing the airline to use the same pool of pilots, cabin crews and maintenance engineers across the fleet.

The A320 Family, which includes the A318, A319, A320 and A321, is recognised as the benchmark single-aisle aircraft family. More than 6,400 Airbus A320 Family aircraft have been sold to more than 300 customers and operators worldwide, making it the world’s 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 containerized cargo system, which is compatible with the world wide standard wide-body system.

The unbeatable economic efficiency of the A330 Family and its superior operational performance has positioned the twin engine jet as being one of the most widely used wide-body aircraft in service today. Airbus has won more than 1,000 orders for the aircraft and more than 600 A330s are in operation worldwide with more than 80 customers and operators. The combined fleet has achieved almost 14 million flight hours and serves around 300 destinations worldwide.

First Royal Saudi Air Force A330 MRTT is delivered for conversion as a Multi-Role Tanker Transport

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 08:00:00 +0100

Airbus Military’s initial A330 Multi-Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) for the Royal Saudi Air Force is being readied for the installation of its mission equipment, bringing this new-generation aerial refuelling aircraft one step closer to a military service introduction in the Middle East.

The no. 1 Saudi Arabian aircraft was delivered last week to Madrid, Spain, where it will undergo its conversion process to the tanker configuration. This is the first of six A330 MRTTs being acquired for the Royal Saudi Air Force.

Also ordering A330 MRTTs is the United Arab Emirates, whose first of three multi-role tanker transports is scheduled to arrive in Spain next January for the conversion.

Based on Airbus’ popular A330 commercial jetliner, the A330 MRTT is outfitted with refuelling systems and specialised equipment for the role as a “flying petrol station.” It will provide in-flight refuelling for combat aircraft, airlifters and other platforms that are capable of being “topped off” in flight.

Refuelling while airborne is vital for the support of military operations and force projection deployments, allowing aircraft to operate over long distances and spend extended times aloft.

The A330 MRTT benefits from Airbus’ modern A330 airframe and fly-by-wire systems, providing a highly capable multi-role aircraft for in-flight refuelling, as well as the transportation of troops and cargo.

All recent competitions for next-generation aerial tankers have been won by the A330 MRTT – with selections made by the air forces of Australia, the United Kingdom, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. A total of 28 A330 MRTTs have been ordered to date by these countries.

The Royal Australian Air Force will be the A330 MRTT’s first operator, with deliveries of its five aircraft to begin in 2010.

Development of the A330 MRTT is the responsibility of Airbus Military, a business unit that was fully integrated into Airbus earlier this year.

The “Let’s shop Airbus” boutique at the 2009 Dubai Airshow

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 06:00:00 +0100

Dubai International Airport’s duty free shopping has earned its worldwide reputation as a must-visit location for the millions of travellers who pass through the country’s global hub facility.

At the 2009 Dubai Airshow – which is being held on the other side of this busy airfield – a unique new Airbus shopping opportunity is available, and it already is attracting significant interest among visitors.

Airbus is sponsoring Internet terminals at this year’s air show, providing an opportunity for attendees to read their e-mail and check out the latest news in cyberspace. In addition to offering 15 minutes of free Internet access, these terminals have a direct connection to the “Let’s shop Airbus” on-line boutique, which offers a wide range of company-branded merchandise available for purchase.

The Airbus on-line boutique was launched earlier this year, and its products include apparel, luggage, children’s items, office supplies and travel accessories, as well as scale models of Airbus aircraft.

For shoppers who are not attending the 2009 Dubai Airshow, the “Let’s shop Airbus” boutique is open around the clock on the Airbus website at www.airbus-shop.com.

A new role for the A380: High-density airliner for low cost flights

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 19:00:00 +0100

Having revolutionised air travel with new standards of comfort, efficiency and performance for the world’s mainline carriers, the A380 is ready for a new role in expanding low-cost travel to more new markets.

The first customer to acquire A380s for single-class, high-density operations is Air Austral, an airline based on the island of La Reunion – a French overseas department in the southwest Indian Ocean.

Air Austral signed a firm order today at the 2009 Dubai Airshow for two A380s, which will be equipped with 840 seats in a single-class configuration. The aircraft are to link La Reunion with Paris, offering the largest and most comfortable economy-class passenger seat in the market. The first A380 delivery to Air Austral is scheduled in 2014.

“My thanks go to Airbus for agreeing to collaborate with us on defining this high-density, long-haul configuration of the A380,” said Air Austral President Gérard Ethève. “We are convinced that the future of air transport will be driven by lower fare and lower cost transportation. After a very serious study, both Air Austral and Airbus arrived at the conclusion that the A380 is the response to this challenge.”

La Reunion has a population of 850,000 inhabitants, with air traffic volume between the island and continental France currently totalling approximately 1 million passengers annually, according to Ethève. These airline operations are considered as domestic flights, and are highly important for the island’s economic, social and cultural relations with France, he added.

“Future traffic growth on such segments will be directly related to airlines’ ability to offer lower-priced tickets, responding to customer demand for cheaper travel,” Ethève said. “The lowering of prices necessitates the use of lower-cost tools. We are very proud to be first to launch a high-density A380, and we are convinced that we will not be the last.”

He predicted that Air Austral’s lower-cost A380 operations would draw feed traffic to the airline’s hub at La Reunion from other destinations throughout the southwest Indian Ocean. “I am convinced the A380 will play an important role on other high-density routes as well, and I believe that in cooperation with my French airline industry colleagues, it could also be used on flights between Paris and the French Antilles in the Caribbean.”

John Leahy, the Airbus Chief Operating Officer – Customers, said the A380’s cabin size and layout will bring a level of comfort to high-density services that is not available in any other aircraft. He noted that Air Austral’s A380s will have 10-abreast seating, which is already in use in high density airline operations with the Boeing 747 and 777. Each seat on the A380 will be at least 3 cm wider than on either of these traditional aircraft, however.

“The A380’s wider fuselage means its seats and armrests can be wider, providing better comfort levels,” Leahy explained. “What’s important in high-density operations is how much room a passenger has. Passengers on low-cost flights will have a much more pleasant experience because of the A380’s upper and lower decks, its ability to be divided into multiple cabins, the aircraft’s wider aisles and its much quieter cabin environment.”

Airbus grows its market presence in the Middle East

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 13:40:00 +0100

Airbus has significantly increased its Middle East market share and is on track to further expand this presence in a region that will experience some of the strongest traffic growth worldwide during the next 15-20 years.

From a modest 10 per cent share in 1985, Airbus has grown its market penetration to 49 per cent today, according to John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer – Customers, who briefed journalists at the 2009 Dubai Airshow.

“We’re well positioned in the Middle East today, and we have the right aircraft to serve this market – including the A380 and A350,” Leahy told reporters. “I foresee Airbus surpassing the 50 per cent market share milestone between now and the next Dubai Airshow in 2011.”

Airbus has logged 869 firm aircraft sales to 31 airlines and leasing companies in the Middle East, with 258 of these jetliners delivered to date.

Leahy said Airbus foresees a demand for 1,436 new passenger and freighter aircraft in the Middle East during the next 20 years – representing a market value of some $248 billion. This is composed of 564 single-aisle aircraft in the A320 Family category, 668 twin-aisle aircraft in the category of Airbus’ A330, A340 and A350 XWB, and 204 very large aircraft in the A380 category.

“The Middle East is literally in the centre of the world geographically, demographically and in terms of wealth distribution – all of which are drivers for airline traffic growth,” he explained. “Other drivers include a youthful population, continued dynamic growth in the region’s business and tourism sectors, along with the desire and ability to efficiently link current and future mega-cities.”

Airbus anticipates a Middle East air traffic growth of 7.2 per cent in the 2010-2015 timeframe, which is exceeded only by China (10.2 per cent) and India (8.8 per cent).

Nepal Airlines signs Memorandum of Understanding for A320 and A330

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 09:11:00 +0100

Nepal’s national carrier, Nepal Airlines Corporation (NAC) is modernising its international fleet with one A330-200 wide-body and one Airbus A320 single aisle aircraft. The new Airbus aircraft will be deployed on international services to Japan and will for the very first time connect Nepal to Europe with direct flights.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was formalised at the Dubai air show.

The two class, A330-200 will be deployed on routes to Europe and North Asia and will play an instrumental role in developing Nepal’s tourism industry especially around to country’s ‘Visit Nepal 2011’ tourism campaign to attract foreign tourists.

“Nepal is well known for offering a wide range of leisure, cultural and outdoor pursuits with plenty to explore. We have seen tremendous growth in tourism over recent years and we want to capitalise on the A330s unique performance and range to offer direct services to our key long haul markets and to develop new ones thanks to the efficiency of the A320,” said Sugat Ratna Kansakar, Executive Chairman of Nepal Airlines.

The dual class A320, will be deployed on regional routes and operate as far as the Middle East as well as in South East Asia.

“The A330 and A320 will open Nepal’s doors to the World. Aviation is a lifeline and a key economic driver to the long-term prosperity to a land locked mountainous country like Nepal. The A330 and A320 are the best and most eco-efficient aircraft for the job, and we are delighted to be embarking on a new partnership,” said John Leahy, Chief Operating Officer, Customers.

Nepal Airlines Corporation (NAC) was incorporated on 1 July 1958 through enactment of Nepal Airlines Corporation Act. 2019. The Airline currently flies to 10 international destinations and 30 spectacular domestic locations in the heart of the Himalayas.

The A330-200 has the best 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 aircraft stand at more than 1000.

The A320 Family, which includes the A318, A319, A320 and A321, is recognised as the benchmark single-aisle aircraft family. More than 6,400 Airbus A320 Family aircraft have been sold to more than 300 customers and operators worldwide, making it the world’s best selling commercial jetliner ever.

Air Austral signs firm order for two single class A380s

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 08:14:00 +0100

Air Austral, based in Saint Denis, La Réunion, has ordered two A380s, the most advanced, spacious and eco-efficient airliner in service today. Powered by Engine Alliance engines and seating around 840 passengers in a single-class configuration, the aircraft will be operated on the high-density route from La Réunion to Paris, France.

“The A380 will offer the best comfort of any aircraft in a high density configuration. With its spacious and extremely quiet cabins, we'll enter a new era in terms of economic air travel.” said Gérard Ethève, President of Air Austral.

“Air Austral opens a new chapter for A380 operations. It will operate the A380 with the lowest fuel cost and emissions per passenger of any aircraft available today” said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer Customers. “The in-service experience has shown just how efficient the A380 really is, and this order from Air Austral demonstrates new ways of benefiting from that efficiency”.

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 generally less than three litres per passenger per 100 kilometres. With the Air Austral configuration, fuel consumption levels below two litres per passenger per 100 kilometres can be expected.

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.

20 A380s are in service with four customers, connecting four continents on 13 major international routes. The in-service A380 fleet has accumulated over 82,000 revenue flight hours in over 8,700 commercial flights. Over 3 million passengers have already enjoyed flying the A380.

Orders for the aircraft stand at 202 from 17 customers.

Airbus will attain another record delivery level in 2009 and further build its order backlog

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 17:40:00 +0100

Airbus remains on track to achieve another record year of aircraft deliveries in 2009 and continues to target a strong intake of new orders for the 12 months – confirming its sustained leadership during one of the most turbulent economic times in commercial aviation history.

Speaking to journalists today at the Dubai Airshow, President and CEO Tom Enders said Airbus expects to at least match its all-time high of 483 deliveries in 2008, and possibly surpass the total this year.

“There are still six weeks to go before the end of the year, and our delivery centres are very, very active these days,” Enders told reporters. “We still hope to deliver a lot of aircraft before the year is over.”

For new business in 2009, Airbus anticipates logging a total of between 200 and 300 orders, with the focus on safeguarding these bookings – particularly from the financing point of view.

“Everyone knows the difficulties faced by the entire airline industry, particularly in new aircraft financing,” he added. “So far, we have been able to cope with this despite it being a difficult year, and we’ve been concentrating on making sure that our aircraft production output actually does lead to deliveries.”

Enders said it is particularly appropriate that the Dubai Airshow comes as this year’s final major aviation industry event – putting the focus on the Middle East as it remains one of the world’s strongest airline markets. He noted that real traffic growth in the region continues strong, supporting Airbus’ market outlook that Middle East airlines will require more than 1,400 new passenger aircraft in the 2009-2028 timeframe to meet demand that is expected to continue above the world average.

“This air show couldn’t be at a better place, at a better time – as it sends a strong signal of encouragement and recovery,” Enders added.

Comlux orders 10th Airbus corporate jet

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 12:41:00 +0100

Comlux has ordered a third Airbus’ Corporate Jetliner (ACJ), taking its total orders for Airbus corporate jets to ten aircraft - 4 A318s, 3 Airbus ACJs, 2 A320 Prestiges and one A330-200 Prestige - and making it the largest Airbus ACJ Family customer.

Some of the aircraft are managed for private customers and some are used to provide VVIP charters - as will the newly ordered aircraft.

“With this acquisition, Fly Comlux confirms its leading position in the top-end charter business,” says Richard Gaona, President and CEO of Comlux The Aviation Group. “The aircraft will be equipped with CFM International CFM56-5 engines, will be outfitted in our completion centre in Indianapolis with a cabin designed by Comlux Creatives, and confirms our global strategy to be a player in almost all business aviation sectors,” he adds.

A Comlux Airbus ACJ for VVIP charters is currently on display at the Dubai show.

“Comlux is one of the largest providers of VVIP charters at the top end of the market, a sector that continues to have good demand today,” comments Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers John Leahy. “Quality will always be in demand, and combining Comlux’s VVIP service with the space and comfort of Airbus corporate jets is a winning combination,” he adds.

Airbus’ ACJ Family - comprising the A318 Elite, ACJ and A320 Prestige - has the widest, tallest and nicest cabin in its class, delivering almost twice the cabin-width of even the largest traditional business jets from other manufacturers.

As part of the world’s most modern airliner product-line, the Airbus ACJ Family is the only one that is truly young at heart throughout, with the newest fuel-saving aerodynamic design, the latest weight-saving structure, and reliable state-of-the-art systems and controls throughout - including the new industry standard, fly-by-wire.

The Airbus ACJ Family is complemented by VIP versions of the company’s widebodies, which offer even more space and comfort, as well as “non-stop to the world” range.

More than 160 Airbus corporate jets have been sold worldwide, comprising over 100 A318 Elites, ACJs and A320 Prestiges, plus around 50 VIP and government widebodies.

Yemenia Airlines to acquire 10 Airbus A320s

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 07:48:00 +0100

Yemenia, the official carrier of the state of Yemen, based in Sanaa, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for 10 Airbus A320 Family aircraft. The agreement was signed at the 2009 Dubai Airshow by Saleh Alawaji, Yemenia Member of the board of directors on behalf of Captain Abdulkhalek Al-Kadi, Chairman of Yemenia and John Leahy, Chief Operating Officer, Customers.

Yemenia’s A320s will be configured in a comfortable two-class configuration with seating for 12 passengers in Business Class and 138 in Economy. The aircraft will be deployed to enhance and expand services on regional, African, Indian and European routes. It will enable Yemenia to demonstrate its role as a growing regional carrier and contributor to the growth of Yemen’s economy.

Saleh Alawaji, said: "Our long term strategy is to grow with an integrated fleet of super efficient and reliable aircraft. The A320 shares operational and maintenance commonality with our existing Airbus’, and will bring added efficiencies. The A320 will also offer our passengers the best cabin comfort in its class.”

“We are honoured Yemenia is showing such confidence in our aircraft, and has chosen our products to springboard their ambitious expansion plans. The A320 is today’s standard in the Single-Aisle market and through our continuous innovations we are strengthening the aircraft’s leadership position for the future. The A320 is better by design and still keeps getting better,” said John Leahy. “With its choice, Yemenia will benefit from Airbus’ family concept which highlights eco-efficiency and streamlines maintenance and operations,” he added.

Yemenia’s fleet includes two A330-200s and three A310s. Sanaa and Aden based, Yemenia’s long haul fleet, operate to destinations in Europe, the Middle East and Asia. During the 2007 Dubai airshow, Yemenia placed an order with Airbus for ten Airbus A350 XWB.

The A320 Family, which includes the A318, A319, A320 and A321, is recognized 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. Around 6,400 Airbus A320 Family aircraft have been sold and more than 4,000 delivered to some 300 customers and operators worldwide, making it the world’s 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 containerized cargo system, which is compatible with the worldwide standard wide-body system.

Sharklets will add new “competitive teeth” to the A320 jetliner family

Sun, 15 Nov 2009 18:09:00 +0100

Airbus’ new wingtip devices for A320 Family jetliners is part of a long-term enhancement programme to ensure that its best-selling single-aisle aircraft product line remains highly competitive, efficient and airport-friendly for years to come.

The first customer to choose these devices – called Sharklets™ – is Air New Zealand, which was revealed at a Dubai Airshow press conference today, where Airbus also rolled out a new tagline for the ever-improving A320 Family: “The best keeps getting better.”

Offered as optional equipment on new production A320-series aircraft, the Sharklets provide aerodynamic improvements that result in multiple benefits for operators, including lower fuel burn, reduced emissions, increased range and payload, better take-off performance and rate-of-climb, higher optimum altitude, reduced engine maintenance costs and higher residual aircraft value.

The Sharklets have a height of 2.4 metres, and their 200-kg. installed total weight is offset by weight savings being introduced throughout the A320 Family airframe.

Airbus has been an industry pioneer in the use of wingtip devices, beginning with its cornerstone A300 and A310 jetliners. Both were outfitted with devices called wingtip fences, which contribute to reducing the spiral-shaped vortices that form at the wingtips of any aircraft during flight – creating aerodynamic drag.

Experience gained with the A330/A310 devices was applied to Airbus’ initial wingtip fences for the A320 Family, and was followed by the incorporation of wingtip fences and larger winglet-type devices on the A330, A340 and A380 – and in the future on the new A350 XWB.

Airbus’ Sharklets are the latest element in an ongoing continuous improvement programme for the A320 Family, which also includes aerodynamic refinements, engine improvements, passenger cabin enhancements and extended service intervals for the airframe.

Humanitarian aid flown in to “Action Against Hunger”, Dubai

Sun, 15 Nov 2009 17:03:00 +0100

An Airbus A380 arriving for the Dubai Airshow will carry with it eight tonnes of humanitarian aid. The delivery, facilitated by the Airbus Corporate Foundation, a non-commercial arm of the leading aircraft manufacturer, and its partners, will boost crucial stocks at Action Against Hunger’s hub in the emirate – strategically located to serve a global effort.

Founded in France in 1979, Action Against Hunger is recognised as one of the most important humanitarian organisations combating hunger and malnutrition worldwide. It is an issue that affects approximately one billion people across the globe, with most lacking access to clean water leading to disease and malnutrition, and remains the largest single contributor to child mortality. Today’s delivery of water purification equipment, more than 50 cubic metres, the equivalent of two 20’ standard sea freight containers, to the non-governmental organisation’s (NGO) Dubai base is central to its efforts.

Tom Enders, Head of the Airbus Corporate Foundation and President and CEO of Airbus, said: “Thanks to all our partners, the Airbus Corporate Foundation has been able to support Action Against Hunger by transporting vital emergency sanitation equipment to one of the key storage hubs. This is a great example of how aviation, being a key enabler of global economic and social development and an essential resource for humanitarian efforts, can help in a very tangible way. We hope this to be the start of a long-term partnership between both our organisations.”

Action Against Hunger is increasing stocks at its Dubai base to capitalise on the emirate’s strategic location from which to serve a coordinated global effort in response to emergency situations elsewhere in the world. The non-profit, non-religious organisation has established an international network to deliver life-saving programmes in some 45 countries, specialising in emergency situations of conflict, natural disaster and chronic food insecurity. A primary concern of these projects is to facilitate the provision of – and access to – safe water through programmes that currently reach four million people each year.

Erland Egiziano, Logistics Director Action Against Hunger, said: “More than one billion people worldwide lack access to clean drinking water and 2.6 billion lack basic sanitation. These issues are the root cause of many infections that lead to sickness and ultimately malnutrition and are responsible for 2.2 million preventable deaths each year – mostly among children. In our efforts to eliminate hunger, clean water is as essential as food. The equipment being delivered today by the Airbus Corporate Foundation is vital in restoring dignity, self-sufficiency and independence for vulnerable communities and saving the lives of children and their families throughout the world.”

The Airbus Corporate Foundation was established in December 2008 to support humanitarian causes through good will flights, youth development in the communities in which it operates, and environmental issues in cooperation with the United Nations Environment Programme’s (UNEP) Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD).

Airbus scores a major commercial win with Ethiopian Airlines’ A350 XWB firm order

Sun, 15 Nov 2009 14:16:00 +0100

Ethiopian Airlines’ acquisition of 12 A350 WXBs, which was confirmed today at the 2009 Dubai Airshow, not only pushed the new jetliner’s total sales past the 500 milestone, it also represented another key commercial win for Airbus.

With this latest success, the Addis Ababa-based airline becomes a new customer by placing its first-ever aircraft booking with Airbus.

“The A350 will serve our market well, and I think this initial order will be the beginning of a very long relationship with Airbus,” said Ethiopian Airlines CEO Girma Wake during an afternoon press conference at the air show. “It is a very good start for a long journey together.”

Ethiopian Airlines is the A350 XWB’s 32nd customer, reinforcing the value of this extra widebody aircraft for operators worldwide – which include small, medium and major airlines, along with leasing companies and VIP clients. These customers are located in Africa, Europe, the Middle East, Asia-Pacific, North America and Latin America, and their total 505 orders have been logged in less than three years from the A350 XWB’s industrial launch in December, 2006.

In addition to Ethiopian Airlines, the A350 XWB’s orders have come from Aer Lingus, Aeroflot, Afriqiyah Airways, AirAsia X, Air One, Alafco, Asiana Airlines, Bangkok Airways, China Airlines, CIT, DAE Capital, Emirates, Etihad, Finnair, Hawaiian Airlines, ILFC, Kingfisher Airlines, Libyan Airlines, MAZ Aviation, AWAS, Qatar, Singapore Airlines, Synergy Aerospace, TAM, TAP, Tunisair, US Airways, Vietnam Airlines and Yemenia – along with two VIP customers.

More than half of all A350 XWB orders booked to date are for the A350-900 version. This is the cornerstone aircraft of a jetliner family that accommodates from 270 to 350 passengers in typical three-class layouts, and offers the same long-range route capabilities of 8,300 naut. mi./15,380 km. The A350-900 is sized for 314 passengers, while the A350-800 version accommodates 270 seats, and A350-1000 carries 350 passengers.