AIRCRAFT manufacturer Airbus is celebrating two key orders from world leading airlines.
Air France-KLM has agreed to purchase 60 A350XWB (extra wide body) aircraft, of which 25 A350-900 will be firmed up shortly, linked to the group’s modernisation plans for its long-haul fleet.
It follows an order earlier last week for 15 A330-300 aircraft by Singapore Airlines that in turn followed an initial order in June this year.
The Airbus plant at Broughton, near Chester, employs about 6,000 staff making wings for its aircraft.
Speaking after the Air France-KLM deal, Airbus chief operating officer John Leahy said: “We are honoured that our all new, extra efficient A350XWB will contribute to Air France-KLM’s long-term success.
“The unbeatable economics and environmental credentials will establish the aircraft as the future backbone of the airline’s long-haul fleet.”
By the end of August Airbus had 567 A350XWB firm orders from 35 customers.
