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Airlines

Northwest Airlines Converts Options to Firm Orders for 30 Airbus A320-Family Aircraft

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Northwest Airlines, a prominent carrier, has solidified its commitment to the Airbus A320-family aircraft by converting 30 options to firm orders. This announcement, made at the Le Bourget Air Show, is a significant development for both Northwest and Airbus Industrie. The new orders, which include 18 A319s and 12 A320s, will replace Boeing 727 aircraft that are due for retirement. The aircraft will be equipped with CfM engines and feature two-class seating, accommodating 124 and 150 passengers, respectively.

Key Takeaways:

  • Northwest Airlines has entered into a memorandum of understanding to convert 30 A320-family aircraft options to firm orders, consisting of 18 A319s and 12 A320s.
  • The new aircraft will be equipped with CfM engines and feature two-class seating, with the A319 accommodating 124 passengers and the A320 seating 150.
  • The order will replace Boeing 727 aircraft, which are scheduled for retirement, with deliveries beginning in January 2002 and continuing through 2004.
  • The transaction is subject to Northwest Airlines Board approval and final documentation.
  • The new orders bring Northwest's total Airbus A320-family aircraft on order to 80, with 70 currently in operation.
  • Northwest was the launch customer for the A320 Family in North America.
  • Airbus Industrie's CEO, Noel Forgeard, commented that the A320 Family offers "tremendous economics, cabin comfort, and commonality," which Northwest passengers and crews have responded well to.

Statistics:

  • 30: The number of A320-family aircraft options converted to firm orders.
  • 18: The number of A319s ordered.
  • 12: The number of A320s ordered.
  • 80: The total number of Airbus A320-family aircraft on order following this announcement.
  • 70: The number of Airbus A320-family aircraft currently in operation.
  • 124: The seating capacity of the A319.
  • 150: The seating capacity of the A320.
  • 2002: The year in which deliveries of the new aircraft are expected to begin.
  • 2004: The year in which deliveries of the new aircraft are expected to conclude.

Sources:

  • PRNewswire, June 17

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