New order for A320 Family aircraft

[Airbus]

NIKI Luftfahrt GmbH today announces a follow-on order for additional nine A320 Family aircraft. The order will raise NIKI’s fleet to 20 A320 Family aircraft.

The successful Vienna-based low cost carrier NIKI will employ the new Airbus jets on routes to European cities and holiday destinations. The airline, founded in 2003, operates in partnership with Air Berlin, which is another major Airbus customer.

“We placed this additional order after four years of successful Airbus aircraft operations. The additional A320 Family aircraft will substantially increase our low-cost services out of Vienna”, says Niki Lauda, President of NIKI. “The Airbus aircraft underpins our strategic objectives on quality, operational economics and comfort. Extra comfort levels are guaranteed through the new Airbus cabin, enhancing customer satisfaction. That is our top priority.”

John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer Customers added: “We are extremely pleased that NIKI further confirms its confidence in the A320 Family as the best aircraft for their successful daily operations. NIKI was the first to fly the enhanced Airbus A320 cabin, which makes the aircraft even quieter, brighter and more spacious. The Austrian airline is flying the world’s most comfortable and eco-efficient short to medium haul aircraft.”

The new cabin delivered to NIKI effectively features the most modern design and technological innovations derived from the A380. New smooth lines not only create an ambient atmosphere but also give more space at shoulder level. Increased Overhead Stowage offers 15 per cent more volume. The state of the art design gives a measurable noise reduction, while also decreasing the weight of the aircraft and thus making it more fuel efficient and environmentally friendly.

The A320 Family, which includes the A318, A319, A320 and A321, is recognized as the benchmark single-aisle aircraft family. Each aircraft features fly by wire controls and all share a unique cockpit and operational commonality across the range. Over 5,800 Airbus A320 Family aircraft have been sold and over 3,300 delivered to more than 200 customers and operators worldwide, making it the worlds best selling commercial jetliner ever. With proven reliability and extended servicing periods, the A320 Family has the lowest operating costs of any single aisle aircraft. Uniquely, the A320 Family offers a containerized cargo system, which is compatible with the world wide standard wide-body system.