Airbus completed the deal of the show so far yesterday when it agreed an $8.7 billion deal with ILFC (International Lease Finance Corporation) for 111 aircraft. It includes five A380F freighters to add to the five A380 passenger aircraft already announced.
The other aircraft include 21 A330s and, if Airbus decides to go ahead with the A330-200 freighter programme, ILFC would take "a considerable number" making it the launch customer.
The balance of 80 aircraft will come from the A320 family.
"We believe the Airbus range offers the best technical performance, range and passenger comfort," said Steven Udvar-Hazy, ILFC chief executive officer. "The order reflects our continued commitment to Airbus' outstanding products and ever-increasing market presence.
"We foresee further increases in demand for these aircraft, including and in particular for the A380, both in its passenger and freighter versions."
It was too early to talk about which specific airlines might be interested in the A380, he said, adding that clearly ILFC would be speaking with airlines currently operating Boeing 747s.
"We would also seek to bring in new customers (new to the A380) who may operate 747s in the Asia Pacific region and in Europe and the US who may be interested in ones, twos, threes or fours."
Decisions on engines have not been made yet.
Source: Flight Daily News
