Hong Kong Airlines Signs Firm Order with Airbus for 51 Aircraft

Released on Wednesday, September 12, 2007

Hong Kong Airlines has signed a firm contract with Airbus for 30 A320 Family aircraft, 20 A330s and one ACJ, herewith firming up an initial commitment announced at Le Bourget Airshow in Paris in June. Engine choices have yet to be finalised.

Since the company was established in 2001, Honk Kong Airlines has grown rapidly and built an extensive full service network serving Asian and Chinese mainland destinations.

"Our decision to acquire these Airbus aircraft follows an extensive evaluation period. These Airbus aircraft are really the best suited for our needs," said Ren Wei Dong, Chairman of Hong Kong Airlines. "This new fleet of 51 aircraft secures the future growth of our operations and will reinforce Hong Kong as a key gateway in the region. It marks the first step in what we expect will be a long and fruitful co-operation between Airbus and Hong Kong Airlines," he added.

"We are delighted to welcome Hong Kong Airlines as a new Airbus customer. In one of the most competitive markets in the world, this young and dynamic airline has quickly made its mark in offering quality and reliable service to previously un-served cities," said Airbus Chief Operating Officer Customers John Leahy. "We are very pleased to have been selected by Hong Kong Airlines to be part of their future development and to be able to contribute to realising their ambitions."

Firm orders for the A320 Family now stand at 5,350 aircraft ordered by 189 customers making them the most successful jetliner ever. Close to 1,200 A330/A340 Family aircraft have been ordered by almost 90 customers.