In a resounding testament to Airbus’s global standing and technological prowess, several significant announcements at the Dubai Airshow 2023 underscore the company’s pivotal role in shaping the aviation landscape.
airBaltic is set to become the largest customer for the Airbus A220 in Europe following the confirmation of an additional order for 30 A220-300s. This move will elevate the airline’s total firm orderbook to an impressive 80 aircraft.
Martin Gauss, President and CEO of airBaltic said, “This day marks a significant milestone in the history of airBaltic – our plans for the first time ever to operate a fleet of 100 aircraft by 2030. For almost seven years already, the Airbus A220-300 has been the backbone of our operations and has played an integral role in the international success story of airBaltic. Being the global launch customer of the Airbus A220-300, we continue to be a proud ambassador of it. We are grateful to our partners at Airbus for the incredible support, trust, and collaboration over these years.”
Christian Scherer, Airbus Chief Commercial Officer and Head of International said, “Thank you to airBaltic for being such an ambassador for the A220 with this repeat order. The A220 has been the instrument for airBaltic in its success and growth thus far and we are particularly proud to be extending this partnership well into the future with this latest order. The A220 offers a unique capability in terms of range, performance, and not to forget, passenger appeal. It is a gamechanger for our customers in this important market segment, which we are serving with less fuel-burn, lower emissions and noise, making the A220 a global citizen of choice.”
Mubadala Investment Company and Airbus have inked an agreement aimed at providing internship opportunities for Emirati senior university students specializing in engineering.
Fatima Al Marzooqi, Director of Portfolio Emiratisation at Mubadala said, “Mubadala is delighted to support this important initiative which will not only bolster our future-focused knowledge-based economy in the UAE but provide an exceptional opportunity for Emirati students. We know that our most valuable asset is people and through this innovative partnership with Airbus we can help grow world-class talent. This leading internship is a significant milestone in our Emiratisation programme as we continue to support the UAE’s continued acceleration and transformation by fostering talent that can thrive in sectors vital for Abu Dhabi’s future growth and success.”
Mikail Houari, President, Airbus Africa and Middle East commented, "For many decades, Airbus has worked closely with local and regional organisations to nurture, develop and inspire young talent. Ensuring youth have the right skills and knowledge supports the future growth and progress of the aviation and aerospace sectors. The industry is vital for long-term economic diversification and sustainable development of the region. We are proud to have signed this new partnership with Mubadala and we look forward to many years of collaboration to drive localization of our global expertise and support Emiratisation efforts.”
EGYPTAIR has unveiled plans to enhance its global flight operations with the acquisition of 10 new Airbus A350-900s, a deal announced at the Dubai Airshow.
EGYPTAIR Chairman and CEO Yehia Zakaria said, "EGYPTAIR is a key partner of Airbus in the Middle East and Africa. We take immense pride in this partnership aimed at furthering the aviation industry. Our focus lies in the enhancement of our fleet to embrace some of the most contemporary aircraft available, EGYPTAIR has firmed up an agreement with Airbus to procure 10 A350-900 aircraft, each boasting a capacity of 340 seats. These aircraft come equipped with cutting-edge technologies and Rolls-Royce XWB Trent engines, known for their modern design and reduced fuel emissions and consumption. As we tackle growing demand across our network, this aircraft is the optimal choice."
Christian Scherer, Chief Commercial officer and Head of Airbus International said, “Once delivered the A350-900 will be EGYPTAIR’s flagship aircraft. Adding the world’s most modern and efficient widebody aircraft to the airline’s fleet will be instrumental in expanding its offering, opening new opportunities particularly in Western US and the far East.”
Ethiopian Airlines Group, Africa’s leading airline, has solidified its commitment to the Airbus A350 by signing a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for an additional 11 A350-900s.
Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mr. Mesfin Tasew said, “We are excited to place this commitment for 11 Airbus A350-900s. As a customer focused airline, we are particularly excited for this fleet as it offers extra comfort to passengers with its features like the quietest cabin in its class and ambient lighting. We are keen to expand our fleet size, acquiring the latest technology aircraft to offer a convenient and memorable onboard experience to our esteemed passengers.”
Christian Scherer, Airbus Chief Commercial Officer and Head of International, said, “Ethiopian Airlines is a great example of how to leverage the exceptional values of the A350 for long-haul travel, playing on the benefits of Ethiopia’s unique geographical position that offers the fastest connections between China and Latin America. We are delighted to further strengthen Ethiopian Airlines fleet, and through this, continue the great relationship we have built up together.”