SriLankan Airlines signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Airbus for six A330-300s and four A350-900s at the Paris air show yesterday .
The new range of aircraft will be significantly more efficient than the previous fleet, using 25% less fuel and providing an equivalent reduction in CO2 emissions. To date the A350 XWB has already won 613 firm orders from 33 customers worldwide.
The aircraft share a unique cockpit and operational commonality, allowing airlines to use the same pool of staff to allow greater flexibility and reduce cost.
The twin engine A330 is one of the most widely used widebody aircraft in service today. Airbus has recorded more than 1,200 orders for various versions of the aircraft.
Kapila Chandrasena, CEO of SriLankan Airlines, said:
“The efficiency, reliability and passenger appeal of our in-service A330s form the pillar of SriLankan’s long haul operations.
“Adding more new A330’s to our fleet, combined with the unbeatable economics the A350 XWB will offer, allows us to achieve a strong economical performance.”
Airbus were grateful for the continued support from SriLankan airlines. John Leahy, Airbus chief operating officer, customers, said:
“The winning combination of A330’s and A350 XWB’s will allow SriLankan Airlines to offer the highest levels of comfort to their passengers while also benefitting from superior efficiency levels at any time.”
