GE Commercial Aviation Services (GECAS), a unit of GE and a leading aircraft financier has signed a firm contract with Airbus for 60 additional A320 Family aircraft. “There is significant demand for efficient narrow-body aircraft in both traditional, and developing markets around the world”, said Henry Hubschman, President and CEO of GECAS, “We are therefore pleased to expand our portfolio of A320 Family aircraft.”

“We are pleased to see this repeat order from a leading leasing company such as GECAS”, said Airbus Chief Operating Officer Customers, John Leahy, “it underlines the needs of the marketplace and clearly demonstrates the value of the A320 Family.”

Further aerodynamic refinements and an all-new lighter cabin help reduce fuel burn and emissions further, and make the A320 Family the most environmentally friendly single-aisle aircraft in operation. Centralised maintenance with extended servicing intervals, and proven reliability in day-to-day service contribute to give it the lowest operating costs.

The Family share operational commonality, and fly by wire controls, which means crews can work across the entire Family range with minimal re-training. The Family has the widest cabin in the single aisle market, and this offers operational advantages such as fast turn around times. It also offers passengers added cabin space and comfort.