Italian air force will order A319CJ to replace its DC-9s

The Italian air force is to buy two Airbus A319 Corporate Jets (CJs) to replace its two McDonnell Douglas DC-9 VIP transports.

The service, which has been operating the two DC-9-32s since 1974, is understood to have signed a letter of intent to purchase the two A319CJs, worth some L130 billion ($80 million), for delivery in 1999. It has also placed an order with Dassault Aviation for two Falcon 900EXs to replace its 11- to 13-year-old Gulfstream IIIs.

The A319CJs' configuration and engine selection are yet to be finalised. Italian sources suggest that Lufthansa Technik is negotiating on possible interiors work.

Airbus holds eight commitments for the A319CJ, although the identities of the customers have not been announced.

EVA Airways of Taiwan is known to have signed a letter of intent for one aircraft, which will be operated by its parent company, the giant Evergreen Group.

Source: Flight International