Airbus starts production of the A320neo family

Airbus announced (08-Jul-2012) the first 'cutting of metal' for the A320neo has taken place in Toulouse, marking the start of manufacturing of the aircraft. Machining began of the first engine pylon component at the Airbus dedicated pylon and nacelle factory. The A320neo will enter into service from late 2015. It incorporates latest generation engines and large sharklet wing-tip devices, which together with the new engines will deliver up to 15% in fuel savings. The aircraft has more than 1400 firm orders since its launch in Dec-2010. [more - original PR]