United Airlines orders 10 A350-1000s, converts order for 25 A350-900s to A350-1000s

United Airlines announced (20-Jun-2013) an order for ten A350-1000 aircraft, as well as the conversion of the carrier's previous order for 25 A350-900s to A350-1000s. The aircraft will be powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines, with the first A350-1000 due for delivery in 2018. The carrier expects an approximate 20% fuel saving on existing widebody aircraft. United Airlines chairman, president and CEO Jeff Smisek said: "We look forward to taking delivery of the A350-1000. This is a modern, fuel-efficient and advanced-technology aircraft that our customers and co-workers will enjoy flying. It will be a great addition to our fleet, and will allow us to meet demand on larger, long-haul markets in our world-leading network." Airbus president and CEO Fabrice Bergier said: "Less than a week after the success of the A350 XWB's first flight, we see that demand for the new aircraft continues to grow, especially for the larger -1000 model. Airbus is proud to have United Airlines on board the exciting A350 programme in such a significant way." Rolls-Royce senior VP civil large engines Jacqui Sutton said: "This latest order from United Airlines for our world-leading Trent engine technology underscores our confidence in the A350-1000 and the higher thrust version of the Trent XWB which will power this aircraft." [more - original PR - United] [more - original PR - Airbus] [more - original PR - Rolls-Royce]