International Airlines Group (IAG) will convert fourteen options, announced in August 2013, into firm orders for A320neo family aircraft. According to the company, it will order eleven Airbus A320neo and three A321neo aircraft.
Although the official statement does not specify the destination of the aircraft, according to British media they could join the British Airways fleet. Iberia, Aer Lingus and Vueling are the other airlines of the holding company that operate A320 family aircraft.
The order is in addition to the eight options converted into orders that the Anglo-Spanish company finalized in March of this year. At that time, the order included six A320neo and two A321neo.
IAG expects the new aircraft to be delivered between 2024 and 2025. The acquisitions will enable IAG to continue the renewal of its existing fleet of narrow-body aircraft.
The A320neo (acronym for New Engine Option) family models were developed from the A320 family. They offer operators substantial improvements in terms of fuel savings, reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and noise impact.
In this regard, IAG emphasized that “these modern and more fuel-efficient aircraft will save costs and bring environmental benefits for the group’s companies”.
See also: Interview with Eylo González Merino, Iberia Maintenance Engine Shop Manager
