Air Astana Group, the leading airline group in Central Asia and the Caucasus regions by revenue and fleet size, has signed a firm order for 25 Airbus A320neo Family aircraft, the largest ever direct order by the group.
The agreement was made on the 20th anniversary since Air Astana started operating its first A320 in 2006, and includes five A320neo and 20 A321neo aircraft.
“Air Astana’s large order for a new fleet of Airbus A320neo Family aircraft reflects a commitment to maintaining its reputation for operational efficiency and service excellence in the long term,” said Peter Foster, CEO of Air Astana.
“The Airbus A320neo Family has proven to be an outstanding success in service with Air Astana over many years. In particular, the A321LR in its premium configuration allows us to offer what we believe is the world’s best narrow-body long-haul product, combining true long-range capability with an exceptional onboard experience. I’m confident that the new fleet will continue to boost sustainable growth and profitability in the long term.”
Air Astana Group will deploy the new aircraft with both Air Astana and its low-cost subsidiary FlyArystan as part of the overall fleet expansion and renewal. Currently the group operates a fleet of 59 Airbus A320 Family aircraft.
“This order further validates the unmatched economics and market appeal of the A320neo Family in one of the world’s fastest-growing aviation markets,” said Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus EVP Sales of the Commercial Aircraft business.
“We are pleased to support Air Astana’s vision to connect Kazakhstan to the world. This deal solidifies a decades-long bond, ensuring they continue to set the regional gold standard for fleet modernisation, operational excellence and passenger experience.”
The A320 Family is the world’s most popular single-aisle aircraft having won more than 19,000 orders globally. The Family includes the largest member, the A321neo offering unparalleled range and performance. The Family offers at least 20% fuel savings and CO₂ reduction compared to previous generation single-aisle aircraft, while maximising passenger comfort with one of the widest single-aisle cabins in the sky.
As with all Airbus aircraft, the A320 Family is able to operate with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). Airbus is targeting to have its aircraft up to 100% SAF capable by 2030.
Featured image credited to Airbus
