Airbus chief operating officer for customers John Leahy is expecting to reveal commitments for over 200 aircraft during the Farnborough air show this week.
Leahy made the comment at the air show shortly after disclosing a 55-aircraft deal with Abu Dhabi carrier Etihad Airways.
“I’d be surprised if we didn’t sell over 200 aircraft, including firm orders and memorandums of understanding,” says Leahy.
The Airbus executive hints at possible lessor orders, although plays down a possible order from ILFC, saying: “I don’t think that ILFC will be announcing something here, but I may be wrong.”
Leahy is expecting to sell around 800 aircraft this year, marking an increase from an original forecast of 700 aircraft sales. Airbus’ interim order total at 30 June stood at 525.
The Etihad Airways deal comprises 20 A320 family aircraft, 25 A350 XWBs and10 A380s, plus a total of 20 options and fixed price purchase rights on a further 35. Today Etihad also signed a 45-aircraft deal with Boeing, comprising 35 787s and 10 777-300ERs plus 20 options and 35 purchase rights.
Source: Flightglobal.com's sister premium news site Air Transport Intelligence news
Source: Flight International
