SINGAPORE AIRCRAFT Leasing Enterprise (SALE) is understood to be close to finalising a deal with International Aero Engines (IAE) for V2500 turbofans to power its planned fleet of 24 Airbus A320/A321s. SALE has selected the V2500 over the rival CFM International CFM56-5.
The Singapore Airlines/Boullion Aviation Services joint-venture leasing company expects formally to announce its engine decision shortly. The deal covers engines for eight A320s and four A321s on firm order for delivery through to mid-1999, plus options on a further 12 aircraft up to 2001. The first three A320s are due to be handed over in January and February 1997, with the first two A321s following in September and October.
SALE's is the latest in a series of IAE A320/321 campaign successes in Asia. In December, All Nippon Airways ordered the V2530-A5 for ten A321s on firm order, followed in June by China Southern Airlines selecting the V2527-A5 for its 17 A320s, and South Korea's Asiana Airlines in September choosing the V2530 for its planned 18 A321s.
A significant factor in the selection is thought to have been the General Electric Capital Aviation Services order in July for up to 90 CFM56-powered A319/320/321s, and the likely impact of that deal on the leasing market.
Source: Flight International
