Azul Brazilian Airlines has ordered five Airbus A350-900s and six A330-200s to be leased from International Lease Finance Corporation (ILFC).
Azul plans to use the aircraft to launch international flights by early 2015 to destinations in the US from São Paulo Campinas Airport.
The A350-900 aircraft are anticipated to deliver in 2017, while deliveries of the A330-200 aircraft are expected to begin in 2014. Rolls-Royce engines will power the aircraft.
“ILFC is pleased to support Azul’s introduction of international service with these Airbus A350s and A330s,” said ILFC Chief Executive Officer Henri Courpron. “There is a real opportunity for Azul to build on its successful base in Brazil and provide air service in a region which is becoming increasingly important to the aviation marketplace. We believe this is only the beginning of a successful strategic partnership between Azul and ILFC.”
“Azul is the one airline that truly serves all of Brazil. With 104 destinations, Azul unites the country better than any other airline, with convenient and frequent connections,” said Azul Chief Executive Officer and Founder David Neeleman. “Our customers have been asking for this and now we look forward to providing them with our superior service on international flights, just as we have been doing today on our 880 daily domestic departures. We’re excited to share the Azul experience with new customers internationally and expand the airline’s success story beyond Brazil’s borders.”