AirAsia to introduce Airbus A320neo this year

AirAsia Bhd will introduce four Airbus A320neo aircraft to its fleet in the second half of this year and 200 more by 2028.

The new A320neo aircraft are powered by CFM International’s new LEAP-X engines and will fly all routes operated by the budget airline.

Group Chief Pilot Technical and Efficiency Rajesh Gill said the A320neo aircraft will deliver fuel savings of up to 20 per cent and have the ability to carry two tonnes more in terms of payload for a given range.

“AirAsia placed orders for four A320neo aircraft earlier and the first delivery is slated for either June or July of this year,” he said, adding, the engines are still being certified at the moment by the manufacturer.

“The move to bring in the A320neo aircraft is in line with the company’s commitment towards climate change and taking proactive steps to reduce the carbon footprint,” he told reporters after the #GREEN24 community event here today.

Rajesh said AirAsia will be the first airline globally to use the Airbus A320 Sharklet equipped aircraft, which reduces carbon emissions caused by wing tip drag.

AirAsia Bhd Chief Executive Officer Aireen Omar said the A320neo is expected to replace some of the existing aircraft which are too old and consume more fuel.

“The new aircraft, to be delivered in stages until 2028, is more fuel-efficient and produces less carbon for the environment,” she added.

Meanwhile, the two-day #GREEN24 community event which began yesterday across the AirAsia Group and all its global offices, is aimed at saving energy, reduce wastage and encourage recycling.

Aireen said all across Malaysia, AirAsia offices are conducting activities such as beach, park and hill clean-ups, as well as recycling drives to further promote good environmental habits among staff and the public. – Bernama