Spotlight
Volaris places the largest aircraft order in Mexican history
Since starting operations in 2006, Volaris has become one of the top three airlines in Mexico having quickly expanded their network throughout the country and into the United States. For this expansion, Volaris has completely relied on the A320 Family, currently operating a mix fleet of 34 aircraft including 24 A319s and 10 A320s. And based on a previous order, Volaris still has another 14 A320s to be delivered. It is precisely this constant introduction of new aircraft what makes its fleet one of the youngest in the world, with an average age of four years.
The new order for 44 A320 Family aircraft will more than double the airline’s all-Airbus fleet. This latest development is considered highly distinctive for three reasons:
- The order enjoys the prestige of being the largest single commercial aircraft order ever placed in Mexican history,
- Volaris will be the first Mexican operator to engage into the step change inherent to the new A320neo and
- The order further solidifies the Volaris-Airbus relationship, now dating back six years, illustrating the airline’s total confidence in Airbus aircraft.
According to John Leahy, the Airbus Chief Operating Officer for Customers, “this order is important – not just as the largest in Mexico’s aviation history – but also insofar as it enhances the already strong Airbus partnership with one of the leading airlines in that country.”
The A320neo, which includes new efficient engines manufactured by Pratt&Whitney (PW1000G) or CFM (Leap-X) as well as large “Sharklet” wing-tip devices, will reduce Volaris fuel expenses by a minimum of 15%. Furthermore, as carbon emissions are directly linked to the aircraft fuel burn, CO2 emissions will see an equivalent reduction. In the words of Volaris CEO Enrique Beltranena, “the arrival of the new A320s is great news not only for Volaris and the environment, it is good news also for all of our customers.” The reduction in fuel burn will be equivalent to 1.4 million litres of fuel, saving 3,600 tonnes of C02 per aircraft per year.
The A320neo will also provide Volaris a higher payload capability out of their home bases, thanks to the improved take-off performance, as well as more available range for future route expansion. Expanding their network is an important part of Volaris’ strategy, as they demonstrated in 2011 by adding 20 new routes. The A320neo’s range capabilities as well as its reduced costs will enable this strategy while ensuring competitive pricing.
Mr. Beltranena summed it up best when he said “the new airplanes will let us strengthen our low price strategy to benefit a larger number of Mexicans, while their fuel efficiency and reliability will allow our fleet, the youngest in the country, to be even more friendly to the Mexican skies.”
For more information contact:
Amaya Rodriguez Gonzalez
Director Airline Marketing, Latin America & Caribbean
amaya.rodriguez-gonzalez@airbus.com