AWAS has announced that the decision was made in September to convert its positions for two A350-800s to two of the larger A350-900 model. AWAS was an initial launch customer for the programme, and one of the first lessors to place an order for this game changing aircraft and will receive both aircraft from this firm order in early 2018.
Ray Sisson, President & CEO AWAS commented, “AWAS is very pleased to be able to offer our global airline customers the breakthrough performance and efficiency of the A350 XWB. Our conversion to larger A350-900 model reflects our overall confidence and the strong development of the programme to date.”
“AWAS’ decision to upsize to the A350-900 underlines the trend we are seeing across all market segments favouring larger aircraft models in all size categories,” said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers. “The A350-900 is the newest generation member of Airbus’ leading widebody aircraft family, and thanks to its wider cabin, passengers enjoy an optimal travel experience with wider seats, more headroom, wider panoramic windows and larger overhead storage space. Customers benefit from the A350 XWB’s state of the art technologies, from advanced materials, to latest systems and engines which deliver a 25 per cent advantage in fuel and operating costs, more range and additional seats for greater revenue potential.”