Singapore-Based BOC Aviation Orders 50 Airbus A320 Family Aircraft

BOC Aviation, a Singapore-based aircraft leasing subsidiary of Bank of China, has placed a new firm order for the purchase of 50 Airbus A320 Family aircraft including 25 NEOs.

The order comprises A320 and A321 variants of both engine options. BOC Aviation has yet to unveil its engine selection.

BOC Aviation last placed an order for A320ceo Family aircraft in 2010. This order for A320neo Family aircraft will be its first for the new engine option.

“Airbus’ popular A320 and A321 aircraft with the current engine option are outstanding aircraft for airlines focusing on operational efficiency who want to offer their passengers a superior short to medium haul travel experience,” said Robert Martin, BOC Aviation’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer. “The A320neo Family order reinforces our commitment to be a key player in the leasing industry as we make the latest eco-efficient aircraft available to our customers.”

Including this latest purchase agreement, BOC Aviation’s cumulative orders for new Airbus aircraft reach a total of 187 (181 A320 Family and six A330 Family aircraft), of which 131 have already been placed with airlines.

BOC Aviation has also been growing its Airbus fleet through purchase and leaseback transactions with airlines. To date, BOC Aviation has successfully placed Airbus aircraft with over 40 airlines worldwide.

The A320neo will enter into service from late 2015, followed by the A319neo and A321neo in 2016. The A320neo Family incorporates latest generation engines and large Sharklet wing-tip devices, which Airbus say will together deliver up to 15% in fuel savings which is equivalent to 1.4 million litres of fuel - the consumption of 1,000 mid size cars, saving 3,600 tons of C02 per aircraft per year.