Korean Air has finalised its order with Airbus to purchase up to 33 A350s, including both passenger variants, to boost its fleet.
The commitment includes 27 A350-1000s and six A350-900s. The purchase of these aircraft is viewed as essential for Asiana Airlines’ upcoming integration into Korean. The South Korean carrier is awaiting final approvals for its formal deal with Asiana.
Once the final approvals, notably from the U.S., come through, Korean will absorb Asiana and, as part of that, their fleet of A350s will switch allegiances too. Therefore, a deal for A350s finalised with Airbus will only enhance its commitment to the next-generation and efficient series.
The A350’s exceptional range, fuel efficiency and passenger comfort make it a great fit for our global network. We are confident that the introduction of the A350 to our fleet will drive operational efficiencies and elevate the overall travel experience for our passengers
Jason Yoo, Chief Safety and Operating Officer and EVP at Korean Air.
In a press release, Airbus highlighted that the A350 offers airlines a 25% reduction in fuel consumption and carbon emissions compared to previous-generation aircraft. Additionally, the A350’s range is ideal for airlines’ long-haul networks.
For Korean Air, while the new A350s will complement the units coming from the Asiana Airlines takeover, they’ll also prove crucial for other fleet replacement efforts and to ensure fleet commonality is present long into the future.
This order from Korean Air is another major endorsement for the A350 as the world’s long range leader. The airline will benefit from new levels of efficiency across its operations, with significantly reduced fuel consumption and carbon emissions. The A350 will also be the perfect platform for the carrier to take its in-flight product and world class service to new heights. We thank Korean Air for its ongoing confidence in Airbus and its products, and look forward to seeing the A350 flying in the carrier’s iconic livery.
Benoit de Saint Exupéry, EVP Sales, Commercial Aircraft, Airbus
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Daniel Fowkes is a Melbourne-based aviation analyst and journalist with over a decade of industry experience. As founder of Dj’s Aviation, he delivers trusted analysis on aircraft, airline strategy and global aviation trends for djsaviation.net
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