Aircraft manufacturer Airbus has indicated that it might accommodate Jet Airways in its initial delivery of the brand new A-320 neo aircraft. A leading consultant's report suggests that Jet is understood to be evaluating A-320 neo aircraft as part of its expansion.
The aircraft manufacturer, though, refused to give details about such a development. However, sources said that the two sides did discuss the possibility.
“If Jet Airways places an order now, we may find out ways to deliver the newer aircraft along with other initial customers. It is always our desire to have Jet Airways on board,” a source told
Jet Airways refused to comment on this development while Mr Justin Doban, Head of Corporate Communication, Airbus, said, “We are always in discussion with our customers. Any contractual information is confidential.”
Jet Airways along with JetKonnect operates 121 aircraft for over 600 domestic and international flights. Most of these aircraft are from Airbus's rival American manufacturer Boeing.
This issue came into the limelight when aviation consultant Centre for Asia Pacific Aviation (CAPA) claimed in its report that it expects Jet Airways could place a “large narrow body order for over 100 aircraft in FY2012/13 to meet both replacement and growth requirements. The airline is understood to be actively evaluating the A-320 neo and it is also likely to lease up to 10 A-330s to support the expansion of its European route network.”
Indian carrier, Indigo has already placed order for 150 A-320 neo, while another low cost carrier GoAir has booked 72. These two are among 24 customers who have placed order for 1,289 A-320 neo aircraft.
The aircraft manufacturer is likely to begin delivery in 2015-16.
A-320 neo is a new narrow bodied aircraft which will come with Sharklets (wing tips shaped like a shark's dorsal fin) just like the ‘winglets' in Boeing planes. A Sharklet is an Airbus designed large wing tip device.
It is an optional replacement of the existing wingtip fence. The aircraft manufacturer claims that it helps in reduction of fuel burn and CO2 emission by at least 3.5 per cent. This is also capable of increasing the range as well as payload capacity.
According to April data released by Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), Jet Airways along with its low cost arm commands over 28 per cent market share in India.
Shishir.s@thehindu.co.in