The integration of the 131-9A APUs will enable Air Arabia to implement Honeywell’s high-efficiency mode, improving fuel efficiency by 1-2% and cutting CO2 emissions by up to 22 metric tons per APU annually.
Honeywell has been chosen by Air Arabia Group to supply its 131-9A auxiliary power units (APUs) for the airline’s order of 120 Airbus A320neo family aircraft. This agreement includes comprehensive maintenance support for the Honeywell APUs, aiming to boost dispatch reliability and fleet availability, enhance fuel efficiency, and reduce unexpected maintenance costs for Air Arabia.
The integration of the 131-9A APUs into Air Arabia’s A320neo fleet will also enable the airline to implement Honeywell’s High-Efficiency Mode (HEM) upgrade. This enhancement offers a 1-2% improvement in fuel efficiency and reduces carbon dioxide emissions by up to 22 metric tons per APU annually. The HEM upgrade aligns with Air Arabia’s commitment to sustainability and supports the broader industry efforts to advance environmental goals, building on the commitments and outcomes from COP28 in the MENA region.
Khaled Hashem, President, Honeywell Middle East and Africa, said, “Our APUs are addressing the increasing demands of customers who require more reliable components with improved environmental performance, This latest milestone in our more than 10-year relationship with Air Arabia highlights our long-term dedication to providing the region’s world-class carriers with the highest levels of technology and innovation.”
An auxiliary power unit (APU) is an essential component of an aircraft that provides electrical power and air conditioning while the plane is on the ground. It ensures passenger comfort by maintaining a stable environment before the main engines are started. APUs play a crucial role in the operational efficiency of an aircraft, particularly during ground operations.
Adel Al Ali, Group Chief Executive Officer, Air Arabia said, “This agreement builds on our existing partnership with Honeywell and supports Air Arabia’s broader fleet growth strategy, emphasizing our commitment to implementing sustainable practices across our operations while adopting the latest technology to enhance fuel efficiency and passenger comfort.”
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Honeywell is a trusted leader in auxiliary power solutions that has produced more than 100,000 gas turbine APUs over the last 70 years. APUs are part of a broad range of Honeywell technologies that are shaping the future of aviation, one of three global megatrends to which Honeywell’s portfolio is aligned.
