IAG converts eight A330-200 options into firm orders

Iberia to become new operator of the efficient A330-200

IAG has decided to convert eight A330-200 options, previously announced, into firm orders for Spain’s flag carrier Iberia, which will become a new operator of the A330-200. The aircraft will be delivered from the end 2015 and will be equipped with GE CF6 engines. Iberia’s all Airbus fleet already includes eight A330-300s.

“We are just delighted that Iberia has reconfirmed its confidence in the A330, and are extremely pleased to welcome them as a new operator of the A330-200 benefiting from the enhanced performance that the new 242 tonne version brings, while continuing to deliver the family synergies of an all Airbus fleet,” said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers.

Iberia today operates an all Airbus fleet, including 13 A319, 12 A320, 18 A321, 8 A330-300, 8 A340-300 and 17 A340-600. On 1st August 2014, the new A330s were announced alongside an order for eight Airbus A350-900 aircraft. In total they will replace 16 A340 family aircraft in Iberia’s long-haul fleet. The airline flies to more than a 100 destinations in 38 countries.

The A330 Family, which spans 250 to 300 seats, has now attracted more than 1,300 orders, with over 1,000 aircraft flying with more than 100 operators worldwide. The A330 is one of the world’s most efficient aircraft with best in class operating economics, averaging dispatch reliability well above 99 percent.