Latest Airbus A320 to form part of Air Malta’s fleet from this May
Air Malta is concluding an agreement to lease a brand new 180seater Airbus A320neo straight off the production line.
The aircraft, which is currently being assembled at the Airbus plant in Toulouse, France, will join Air Malta’s fleet this May as part of the airline’s growth and expansion plans, the national airline said.
This summer, Air Malta will thus operate with 10 Airbus aircraft (9 A320 and 1 A319).
Commenting on this development, Air Malta chairman Charles Mangion said: “In the coming weeks, we will start operating our summer schedule that will see us flying to no less than 13 new routes. This aircraft will give us additional flexibility in operating these routes and the almost 2,000 additional flights we are planning to operate this year. Upon being presented with this opportunity, we secured this brand new aircraft off the production line. This shows that Air Malta’s management, together with the Airline’s board, are working hard to keep its commitment to strengthening the national airline.”
Tourism Minister Konrad MIzzi said: “With a total of 13 new routes in the last six months, coupled with the added frequencies during summer, the airline needs operational flexibility and reliability. Air Malta has improved its aircraft utilisation significantly and is also working hard to ensure that its aircraft fly more hours with up to 12 hours in winter and 14 hours in summer. This new aircraft is a muchwelcomed addition to the Air Malta’s fleet especially during the busy months ahead.”
The Airbus A320neo is a development of the A320 family. Apart from the enhanced specifications, like the more modern look and feel of the cabin that includes LED lightning, and larger luggage storage, the aircraft is projected to decrease operational costs especially on fuel efficiency by 11-17%.
Due to its fuel efficiency the aircraft is capable of longer range flights of about 10-15% due to its lower fuel burn rate. The aircraft will be equipped with CFM International LEAP-1A engines.