TransAsia Airways has placed a firm order with Airbus for another six A321neo aircraft.
The latest order for the single-aisle jet marks the continuation of a major expansion strategy for the Taiwan-based airline, which will see it launch new routes to regional destinations, including key cities in Southeast Asia.
The A321neo is the fuel-efficient version of Airbus’ stretched narrow-body A320. TransAsia has now ordered a total of 29 A320 series aircraft, of which 11 have already been delivered and 18 – all A321s – will join later this decade. In addition, the airline has two twin-aisle A330-300s on order, with first delivery scheduled for later this year.
“The A321neo is a perfect fit for our strategy to grow efficiently in both domestic and regional markets and is the ideal solution to our fleet needs” said Vincent Lin, Chairman of TransAsia Airways. “With its wide cabin and outstanding fuel performance, the A321neo will bring new levels of comfort to our passengers whilst minimising our environmental footprint.”
“With the latest versions of the A321 TransAsia Airways will be operating the most modern and fuel-efficient aircraft in the 185- to 200-seat category,” said John Leahy, Airbus’ Chief Operating Officer for Customers. “The combination of low fuel burn and extended flying range from Taipei will position the airline well to meet its expansion plans across the fast-growing Asian market.”
TransAsia currently operates from Taipei to Singapore and Hanoi, but the airline’s General Manager for Southeast Asia, Andrew Stephen, said last year that the airline’s goal was to fly to every capital city in Southeast Asia.
