Airbus and Qantas today announced a major deal which will see nearly 100 narrowbody domestic and regional aircraft replaced with highly efficient and versatile new models.
The deal consists of 20 A321XLRs and 20 A220-300s, however includes purchase rights for another 94 aircraft, including smaller models.
In addition to todays announcement, Qantas Group also has an existing agreement with Airbus for over 100 A320neo Family aircraft, which will be used to renew low-cost-carrier Jetstar’s A320ceo Family fleet. This in total brings Qantas Group and Airbus’ commitments to 299 aircraft. Once finalised, it will represent Australia’s largest aircraft order in history.
In addition to Airbus’ win, Pratt and Whitney was selected to provide their Geared Turbofan engine for Qantas’ A320neo Family and A220s, whereas for Jetstar, CFMs LEAP engine was selected. Qantas’ current and past 737 fleet has been exclusively powered by CFM56 engines, whilst Jetstar’s A320ceo fleet is powered by the IAE V2500.
Both of the new generation engines from CFM and Pratt and Whitney will offer Qantas Group with fuel savings between 15-20 percent, contributing to the broader emission reduction efforts the Group is aiming for.
Fleet Renewal Scheme
Qantas operates narrowbody fleet of 75 737-800s and has been assessing options to replace the aircraft for a few years now. Also set to be phased out are 20 Boeing 717s, which operate under regional brand QantasLink. The new aircraft will be delivered from 2023 onwards over the course of ten years and will not only act to replace existing aircraft, but also to expand operations and increase route frequencies depending on demand.
Aircraft as flexible as the A321XLR and A220 allow Qantas to tailor routes based on demand, resulting in lower operating costs and increased profits. For example, the A321XLR could operate Sydney – Perth one day and the next day be operating Sydney – Tokyo. This is perfect if…