Airbus delivers first aircraft to Gulf region’s newest low fare operator.
flyadeal, the newly established low fare airline in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), has taken delivery of its first aircraft and the first of eight Airbus A320ceo aircraft, becoming the newest operator of the Airbus A320 Family.
Announced in 2016, flyadeal will commence operations on 23 September 2017, on the national day of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, serving domestic markets initially before expanding into regional markets.
Powered by CFM engines, the fleet will perfectly match the operational objectives and demands of the new airline. With 186 seats in a single-class configuration, flyadeal’s A320 features the latest Recaro 18” wide economy class seats providing unmatched comfort, and equipped with USB power outlets and personal device holders.
Chairman of flyadeal, H.E. Mr Saleh Al Jasser said: “Saudi Arabia has launched its Vision 2030; a strategic platform for the future development of the Kingdom where transportation and tourism are key pillars. The launch of flyadeal is core to the strategy to mobilize further the country and the region”.
CEO of flyadeal, Con Korfiatis said: “flyadeal will be Saudi Arabia’s newest airline, providing a unique experience with an optimal fleet to serve our domestic and regional markets. The Airbus A320 has been distinctly selected for the needs of our operation, and we look forward to passengers experiencing flyadeal’s onboard service.”
“Saudi Arabia and the region have a very young and digitally savvy population that has an increasing thirst for low fare travel domestically and across the region. flyadeal plans to serve and grow this significant segment of air travel.”
flyadeal has acquired the first eight Airbus A320ceo aircraft for its fleet from Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE).
Commenting on the deal, DAE Chief Executive Officer, Firoz Tarapore said, “DAE is pleased to welcome flyadeal on-board as a new customer. We are delighted to be able to support flyadeal’s fleet strategy as it begins operations, and we look forward to working with the airline to fulfill its fleet ambitions, going forward.”
Mr Tarapore continued, “Having listened to our customers, we feel that the acquisition of these popular and efficient single aisle aircraft reflect continuing market demand for this type of plane.”
“It is a pleasure to expand our partnership with Dubai Aerospace Enterprises and be part of flyadeal’s official operational launch,” said John Leahy, Chief Operating Officer Customers, Airbus Commercial Aircraft. “Airbus is committed to play a major role in supporting flyadeal in its exciting journey, enabling more people to fly at affordable cost.”
“flyadeal’s decision to launch its operations with an A320ceo fleet is a clear affirmation of the continuing appeal of a product that provides an exceptionally comfortable cabin, low operating costs and excellent fuel consumption. These factors will provide a framework from which the airline can build and sustain its future successes and market growth, in both KSA and the region.”
The A320 Family is the world’s best-selling single aisle product line and the preferred choice among legacy carriers, traditional airlines, representing the aircraft of choice within the LCC market. To date, the Family has won over 13,200 orders and more than 7,700 aircraft have been delivered to some 400 customers and operators worldwide. With one aircraft in four sizes (A318, A319, A320 and A321), the A320 Family seats from 100 to 240 passengers. The Family features the widest cabin in the single aisle market with 18” wide seats in Economy as standard.
