Libyan Airlines confirms order for 15 Airbus aircraft

Libyan Airlines has confirmed its options made in June this year and signed a firm contract for the purchase of 15 Airbus aircraft, including four A350-800s, four A330-200s and seven A320s. The Libyan flag carrier said that it will use the new aircraft to replace and expand its existing fleet.

The A330-200s respond to mid-term fleet requirements for new international routes to Asian destinations. The new A320s will be put into service on Libyan Airlines' growing network, both domestically and in Europe and the Middle East. With deliveries commencing in 2017, the A350 XWBs will allow the Libyan carrier to further develop its long-haul operations in the longer term.

"We are very happy to confirm the purchase by Libyan Airlines of new Airbus aircraft to upgrade and expand our fleet to respond to growing demand and a major expansion of Libyan aviation," Tarek Arebi, chairman and CEO of Libyan Airlines, said. "Operating different types of Airbus aircraft will allow us to fully benefit from the commonality between the aircraft and the cost efficiencies that this represents. This also means that we will have one of the most modern and youngest fleet in the region offering the best comfort to our passengers".

"We value the confidence that Libyan Airlines places in Airbus by replacing and expanding their fleet with A320s, A330s and A350 XWBs. Libyan traffic growth is expected to grow significantly and having a modern and cost efficient fleet will allow Libyan Airlines to fully take advantage of that potential," said Fabrice Bregier, Chief Operating Officer of Airbus. "This Agreement also includes the upgrade of Libyan Airlines' extensive maintenance and engineering capabilities to the most up-to-date international standards. We look forward to starting this great challenge together with Libyan Airlines."