Middle East Airlines firms up order for ten A320neo Family aircraft

World’s most fuel efficient single aisle aircraft continues to attract new customers

Middle East Airlines-Air Liban (MEA), the flag carrier of Lebanon, has signed a firm contract for ten A320neo Family aircraft (five A321neo and five A320neo aircraft). This follows the signing of a memorandum of understanding which was announced on 12th July 2012. MEA will announce its engine choice at a later date.

“Airbus’ A320neo Family is the ideal choice for an airline such as Middle East Airlines,” said MEA Chairman-Director General, Mohamad El Hout. “An aircraft offering fuel burn saving, high reliability as well as a modern and comfortable cabin is a sound investment in anyone’s books.”

“Middle East Airlines is going to be well positioned with these A320neo Family aircraft in its fleet to maintain its record as one of the most successful airlines in the dynamic Middle East region,” said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers. “We are convinced the NEO will deliver on its promises as the most fuel efficient single aisle aircraft and look forward to seeing MEA taking full advantage of all the benefits this aircraft offers.”

MEA operates one of the most modern fleets in the Middle East region with four A330-200s, four A321s and ten A320s.

The A320neo ‘new engine option’ for the A320 Family will enter into service from late 2015. It incorporates latest generation engines and large Sharklet wing-tip devices, which together will deliver up to 15 percent in fuel savings which is equivalent to 1.4 million litres of fuel – the consumption of 1,000 mid size cars, saving 3,600 tonnes of C02 per aircraft per year. With more than 1,600 firm orders since its launch in 2010, the A320neo Family has proven to be the fastest selling commercial aircraft programme ever.

The A320 Family is the world’s best-selling and most modern single aisle aircraft Family. To date, close to 8,900 aircraft have been ordered and over 5,300 delivered to more than 380 customers and operators worldwide.