Airbus will begin delivering its popular A320 single aisle aircraft with new engines in 2016, the company announced Wednesday.
Airlines have the choice between CFM International’s LEAP-X engine and Pratt &Whitney’s PurePower PW1100G engine. The new jet, dubbed the A320neo, this new engine option also will include fuel-saving large wing tip devices called sharklets. Airbus estimates its new engine A320 will offer fuel-savings of 15 percent.
“We are confident that the A320neo will be a great success across all markets and with all types of operators, offering them maximum benefit with minimum change,” said Tom Enders, Airbus president.
Airbus sees a market potential of 4,000 A320neo family aircraft over the next 15 years. The new engine option will be offered on the A321, A320 and A319 models which will require limited modifications, primarily to the wing and pylon areas. The A320neo will have over 95 percent airframe commonality with the standard A320 Family.
Airbus’ A320 family competes directly with the Boeing Co.’s 737. Boeing is in the process of deciding whether it will replace its 737 with a new jet or add new engines like Airbus.
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