GECAS to get delivery of 32 ordered Airbus aircraft before 2026

Nov 21, 2019: GECAS will purchase twenty A321XLR and twelve A330-900 aircraft from Airbus, with all 32 aircraft slated for delivery prior to the end of 2026. An agreement to the effect was signed at the 2019 Dubai Airshow.

“We’re delighted to be among the select lessors for the LEAP-powered A321XLR, which offers significant fuel efficiency and greater range. In addition to the commonality benefits, the XLR provides our opportunistic airline customers the ability to open long, thin routes to secondary cities.The optimised configuration of the A330-900 combined with the 7,200 nautical mile range makes it a compelling type in the medium-haul market. As older aircraft are ready to retire, this order allows us to meet our customers’ needs for capacity and range while providing extensive commonality with its predecessor aircraft,” said Greg Conlon, president and CEO, GECAS.

Christian Scherer, chief commercial officer, Airbus said, “Having one of the world’s most respected and influential lessors invest in the A321XLR and A330neo speaks volumes on the aircrafts’ global appeal, versatility and their solid asset values.”

Prior to this order, the A330-900 aircraft, which does not compete with a GE-powered product, has garnered more than 270 orders for the type. As previously disclosed, GECAS’ fleet has been roughly 85 percent GE/CFM-powered for many years.