Airbus to raise A320 Family production to 46 a month by Q2 2016

Reflecting continuing strong appetite for most efficient single-aisle aircraft
Airbus has decided to increase production of its best-selling single-aisle aircraft family to 46 a month in Q2 2016, up from the current rate 42. The new higher production rate will be achieved gradually, with an intermediate step at 44 aircraft per month in Q1 2016.

“Based on the healthy market outlook for our best-selling A320 Family and following a comprehensive assessment of our supply chain’s readiness to ramp-up, we are ready to go to rate 46 by Q2 2016,” said Tom Williams, Executive Vice President Programmes. “With a record backlog of over 4,200 A320 Family aircraft and the growing success of the NEO, we have a solid case to increase our monthly output to satisfy our customers’ requirement for more of our fuel efficient aircraft.”

Over the past five years, Airbus has steadily increased A320 Family production, going from rate 36 at the end of 2010 to rate 38 in August 2011, then up to rate 40 in Q1 2012 to reach 42 per month in Q4 of the same year.

With over 10,200 Airbus single aisle aircraft sold and more than 5,900 delivered to nearly 400 customers and operators, the A320 Family, which includes the A318, A319, A320 and A321, is the world’s best-selling and most modern single aisle aircraft family.

With a total of 2,610 orders the A320neo Family has captured some 60 percent of the market, clearly demonstrating its leadership. Incorporating new more efficient engines and Airbus’ “Sharklet” large wing tip devices, these new aircraft are set to deliver fuel savings of up to 15 percent.