Ten days following the official approval of Airbus’ acquisition of a majority stake in the C Series partnership with Bombardier and Investissement Québec, Airbus revealed the A220 family at a ceremony held at its Henri-Ziegler Delivery Centre, near Toulouse yesterday.
The A220 family comprises two models, the A220-100 and A220-300, formerly Bombardier’s C Series (CS100 and CS300).
JetBlue became the first customer for the newly-rebranded Airbus A220 aircraft, signing a Memorandum of Understanding for 60 firm orders for the larger A220-300 model. The airline converted 25 of its current orders for Airbus A320neo aircraft into orders for the larger A321neo. JetBlue’s A321neos and A220s will be powered by Pratt & Whitney GTF engines.
“JetBlue’s selection of the A220 aircraft as a complement to its growing A320 Family fleet is a tremendous endorsement – both of the A220 itself and of the way these two aircraft can work together to provide airline network flexibility and a great passenger experience,” said Eric Schulz, Chief Commercial Officer for Airbus. “JetBlue will be able to leverage the unbeatable efficiency of both the A321neo and the A220-300, as well as taking advantage of the roomiest and most passenger-pleasing cabins of any aircraft in their size categories.”
“We are evolving our fleet for the future of JetBlue, and the A220-300’s impressive range and economics offer us flexibility and support our key financial and operating priorities,” said Robin Hayes, the airline’s chief executive officer. “As JetBlue approaches our 20th anniversary, the A220, combined with our A321 and restyled A320 fleet, will help ensure we deliver the best onboard experience to customers and meet our long-term financial targets as we continue disciplined growth into the future.”
“The CSALP partnership between Airbus, Bombardier and Investment Quebec is committed to bringing the world the very best aircraft in the 100- to 150-seat market, and JetBlue’s choice of the A220-300 shows that our team is producing a winner,” said Philippe Balducchi, Chief Executive Officer of CSALP.