Airbus sells 230 aircraft at Farnborough 2000

Airbus announced sales of 230 aircraft, valued at US$18 billion at this year's Farnborough air show. The announcements included the first sales for the all-new 555 seat A3XX, with commitments for a total of 22 aircraft from three customers confirming the strong early market interest in the world's largest-ever civil aircraft.

Dubai-based Emirates became the first airline in the world to commit to the aircraft, with an MOU covering firm orders for five aircraft and two freighters. This was followed by Air France, with an announcement for 10 aircraft. ILFC, the world's largest leasing company, became the first North American customer for the new aircraft, with a commitment for five firm orders.

In addition to the 22 A3XX sales, a total of 37 orders were announced for the A330/A340 widebody family. These included the first public expressions of interest, from leasing companies CIT Aerospace and ILFC, for the proposed 222 seat medium to long range A330-500. In the single aisle category, the A320 family had a total of 171 new sales during the week.

Airbus CEO Noel Forgeard said that the announcements made during the show underscored the attractiveness of Airbus aircraft in every market segment. "With the addition of the A3XX, Airbus is now able to offer the most modern and comprehensive product line available today, covering every requirement from 100 to over 500 seats" he said.

Airbus announced during the show that it will increase production rates for the A320 family from 22 to 30 aircraft per month by the end of 2002, while A330/A340 production will rise from six to eight aircraft per month within two years.

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