Aircalin, the international airline of the South Pacific French territory of New Caledonia, has disclosed an order with
Airbus for two long-range A350-900 aircraft which will enable the airline to support fleet adaptation and the carrier's long-haul network expansion.
Currently the airline’s widebody fleet comprises two A330neo aircraft. The airline plans to configure its A350s in a three-class premium layout offering accommodation for more than 320 passengers. This would include an enlarged business class and represent an increase in capacity of 15% compared with the A330neo.
Aircalin’s CEO Georges Selefen said: “As a continuation of our long-standing partnership with Airbus, we have selected the A350-900 to join our fleet in the coming years. These aircraft are essential for operating our recently inaugurated Nouméa-Paris via Bangkok route. They will open the doors to very long-haul flights and enable Aircalin to pursue its development strategy.”
Undisputed long-range leaderBenoit de Saint-Exupery, EVP Sales of the Commercial Aircraft business, said: “We are pleased with Aircalin’s decision to add the A350 to its fleet. This will allow Aircalin to further develop its potential and open up more long haul routes. The order is yet another endorsement of the A350 as the undisputed long-range leader, bringing fuel efficient service on some of the world’s longest networks, while offering passengers the highest levels of comfort.”
The A350 is the world’s most modern and efficient widebody aircraft in the 300-410 seater category. Its clean-sheet design includes ‘state of the art’ technologies and aerodynamics delivering unmatched standards of efficiency and comfort. Its new generation engines and use of lightweight materials bring a 25% advantage in fuel burn, operating costs and CO
2 emissions, compared to previous generation competitor aircraft.
As with all Airbus aircraft, the A350 aircraft is already 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. At the end of November this year, the A350 had won over 1,300 orders from 61 customers worldwide.