International Lease Finance (ILFC) is expected to be the launch customer for the International Aero Engines (IAE) V2500-A5-powered Airbus Industrie A319 passenger aircraft.
In early January, ILFC placed a $1.5 billion order for up to 40 Airbus aircraft, including eight 124-seat A319s, with options for a further three (Flight International, 4-10 January). The remaining order consisted of, 13 A320s, with four options and nine A321s with an additional three options.
While the V2500 is already in service on the A320 and A321, ILFC's smaller A319s will the first to be fitted with the derated version. Previous A319 orders have all been for the CFM56-5A version.
The thrust rating for the V2500-powered A319s has not yet been finalised and it will depend on the end users and the types of environment in which the aircraft are used. It is expected, however, that the engine will be in the range of 98-107kN (22,000-24,000lb)-thrust.
ILFC is splitting the engine order between IAE and General Electric, with about half of the A319/A320/A321s powered by the V2500-A5 range.
Source: Flight International
