Volaris, the Mexican low cost carrier, has signed a purchase agreement for 44 new A320 narrowbody aircraft from Airbus, marking the largest order for new planes ever placed by a Mexico-based airline.
Deliveries will consist of 30 Airbus A320neo airliners and 14 current generation A320 jets. Engine selections have not yet been announced. Consequently, Volaris will become the Mexican launch customer for the new A320neo. Total value of the order is approximately $3.9 billion, based on 2011 list prices.
Volaris currently operates a fleet of 34 Airbus A319 and A320 jets with 14 more on the way, not including the new order.
“The arrival of the new A320s is great news not only for Volaris and the environment,” said Volaris CEO Enrique Beltranena. “It is good news also for all of our customers. The new airplanes will let us strengthen our low price strategy to benefit a larger number of Mexicans, while their fuel efficiency and reliability will allow our fleet, the youngest in the country, to be even more friendly to the Mexican skies.”
“This order is important – not just as the largest in Mexico’s aviation history – but also insofar as it enhances the already strong Airbus partnership with one of the leading airlines in that country,” said John Leahy, Chief Operating Officer, Customers. “In addition, Volaris will become among the first airlines in Latin America to benefit from the A320neo’s increased capabilities, including a 15 percent reduction in fuel burn and emissions.”
