Citilink, the low cost subsidiary of Garuda Indonesia has ordered 25 new A320neo aircraft from Airbus. Currently, the carrier has a fleet of 12 leased A320s which it is operating on its fast growing domestic network (see story here).
In a move which demonstrates the carrier's growing independence from Garuda, this is the first direct purchase by Citilink from Airbus. Previously, aircraft orders for the LCC were placed by Garuda, who most recently signed a contract with Airbus in 2011 for 15 A320ceos and 10 A320neos for operation by Citilink.
“The A320 has played a key role in the recent success of Citilink” said Arif Wibowo, chief executive officer of Citilink. “The low operating costs, fast turnaround times and strong passenger appeal of the A320 make it perfect for our operation and we are looking forward to the even greater efficiencies that will come with the neo.”
Enhanced features of the A320neo include new engines and large "sharklet" wing tip devices, which allow for fuel savings of 15 per cent. The reduction in fuel burn is equivalent to 1.4 million litres of fuel – the consumption of 1,000 mid-size cars – saving 3,600 tonnes of C02 per aircraft per year. The aircraft's design and engine also results in a double-digit reduction in NOx emissions and reduced engine noise.
The A320 varieties of aircraft are the world's best-selling single-aisle aircraft family, with close to 8,900 aircraft ordered and over 5,300 aircraft delivered to over 380 operators worldwide.
Alex Andersson
