US lessor International Lease Finance (ILFC) has agreed a revised deal with Airbus to replace its original order for 16 A350 aircraft with 20 A350 XWB aircraft.
ILFC originally committed to a dozen A350s in late 2005 and a further four early in 2006. This order was split between the A350-800 and -900 types.
But comments from ILFC chairman Steven Udvar-Hazy subsequently prompted a debate over Airbus’ original plans for the A350 based, and the manufacturer ultimately cancelled the original programme and launched the all-new A350 XWB.
Under the revised deal announced today by Airbus, the deal again covers A350-800/900s. But ILFC also has the flexibility to select the larger -1000 version upon request.
Udvar-Hazy says: “Airbus is now offering an outstanding product which satisfies the market and our requirements.”
Airbus president and CEO Tom Enders says: “ILFC’s order confirms that the A350 XWB is a very attractive asset for a leading lessor. It is yet another strong endorsement by the financial community for our all new product.”
Deliveries are reportedly due to run from 2014 to 2017.
It takes Airbus orders for the A350 XWB, which is powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines, to196.
Source: FlightGlobal.com
