World’s first Airbus A320 with Sharklets lands at Clark

MANILA, Philippines - Clark International Airport became part of aviation history yesterday when the world’s first Airbus A320 with Sharklets operated by AirAsia Berhad Malaysia landed at 10:30 a.m. carrying 180 passengers from low cost carrier terminal in Kuala Lumpur.

“We are honored to be part of a history that enables people to move and connect via modern and efficient way. AirAsia’s state-of-the-art and environment-friendly aircraft will certainly redefine air travel experience in the country and in our neighbouring countries in Asia,” CIAC president and CEO Victor Jose Luciano said.

For her part, AirAsia Inc. CEO Maan Hontiveros said: “At AirAsia, we always believe in embracing technological advancements. These new wing tip devices installed in our Airbus A320 will contribute to fulfilling our goal of being the most efficient, innovative low cost airline in the world. More important, these new Airbus A320 with Sharklets aircraft will enable savings of four percent in fuel consumption, corresponding to an annual carbon reduction of around 1,000 tons  per aircraft.”

The newly designed wing-tip devices of Airbus A320 with Sharklets reduce fuel burn and emissions by improving the aerodynamics of the aircraft significantly. In addition, the Sharklets offers the flexibility of either adding around 100 nautical miles more range or allowing increased payload capability of up to 450 kilograms.

“This advancement will also put AirAsia ahead of the competition as we continue to be the frontrunners in the aviation industry – in line with AirAsia’s rapid expansion plans to grow throughout the Asian region.” Hontiveros added.

AirAsia recently placed a new order of 100 more Airbus A320 aircraft including 36 A320ceo aircraft with Sharklets. Altogether, AirAsia has ordered 475 single aisle aircraft from Airbus, comprising 264 A320neo and 211 A320ceo. In 2013 alone, through combination of firms, Airbus deliveries and leases – AirAsia Malaysia will take delivery of 10 aircraft, AirAsia Thailand – eight, AirAsia Indonesia – nine aircraft, Philippines’ AirAsia – three aircraft and AirAsia Japan – four aircraft.