03-May-2006 10:54 AM
Frontier places its first A320 order - ten A320s to join the all-Airbus carrier
Analysis
Toulouse (AIRBUS)- Frontier Airlines, of Denver, Colorado, has finalized a contract for six A320s, the first time the low-cost carrier has selected the aircraft type. The incremental order comes less than one year after Frontier converted to an all-Airbus operator. Also as part of the agreement, Frontier is converting four of its existing A319 orders to A320s, and four other previously ordered A319s to four A318s. Frontier will receive its ten A320 aircraft starting in early 2008 through 2010 and the A318 aircraft in 2007. In addition to these new Airbus orders, Frontier anticipates obtaining three additional A319 aircraft through arrangements with leasing companies.
"We look forward to the introduction of the A320 to our fleet, and the important role this aircraft will play as we continue to grow our fleet," said Jeff Potter, Frontier President and Chief Executive Officer. "The new A320 aircraft and larger number of A318 aircraft further enhance our ability to meet the various demand levels in the Frontier system. The A320 Family commonality brings benefits for our flight crews and operations staff throughout the Frontier system and the flexibility is a vital part of our continued growth."
"By adding the A320 to its all-Airbus fleet, Frontier is reaffirming the strength of the Airbus Single-Aisle Family in the marketplace," said Gustav Humbert, Airbus President and Chief Executive Officer. "Frontier recognizes that our aircraft are the foundation of low-cost carriers worldwide and this order is yet another demonstration of the outstanding comfort, reliability, flexibility and economic benefits provided by the A320 Family."
Frontier put its first Airbus aircraft into service in June 2001. The airline currently operates a fleet of 50 owned and leased Airbus aircraft consisting of seven A318s and 43 A319s. Through March 2006, Airbus had received firm orders for 4335 A320 Family aircraft, while some 2700 A318s, A319s, A320s and A321s are already in service worldwide.
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