The Mexican ultra-low-cost airline, Viva Aerobus, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the acquisition of 90 A321neo aircraft from Airbus, in a drive to boost its international and domestic growth. According to the company, this agreement would increase the total of their order book to 170 aircraft from the A320 family.
“These 90 A321neo 240-seater aircraft will allow us to grow and renew our fleet and remain the youngest in Latin America“, detailed Juan Carlos Zuazua, Chief Executive Officer of Viva Aerobus. According to Zuazua, the technology and operational efficiency of the A321neo will enhance operational reliability and passenger experience, and enable cost savings that will be reflected in lower airfares.
The A321neo is the largest member of the A320neo family, and Airbus emphasizes that it offers unparalleled range and performance. With the incorporation of new generation engines and Sharklets, the A321neo achieves a 50% noise reduction and more than 20% fuel savings compared to previous single-aisle generation aircraft, while at the same time maximizing passenger comfort with the widest single-aisle cabin and large overhead stowage space.
Since 2013, Viva Aerobus has based its fleet renewal strategy on the Airbus A320 family. In that year, the airline placed an order for 52 aircraft from the A320 family, the largest Airbus aircraft order placed by a Mexican airline up to that point. In 2018, Viva Aerobus ordered 25 A321neo aircraft, and currently operates 74 aircraft from the A320 family.
The current fleet of Viva Aerobus consists of 22 A320ceo, 22 A320neo, 9 A321ceo and 21 A321neo.
“The Mexican leisure market is in full recovery mode and Viva Aerobus is at the centre of the action! We are pleased to have been a partner with the airline since 2013 and look forward to working together as it continues on its growth trajectory”, said Christian Scherer, Chief Commercial Officer and Head of Airbus International.
