IBERIA A340 REPEAT ORDER BRINGS ITS TOTAL AIRBUS ORDERS TO ALMOST 100

Iberia is to further expand its Airbus long-range fleet, with an order for three more A340-300s. This takes total orders for Airbus aircraft by the Spanish flag-carrier, Airbus Industrie's largest customer in Southern Europe, to almost 100.

Deliveries of the newly ordered four-engined widebodies are scheduled to begin in February 2002. The aircraft will join Iberia's existing fleet of twelve A340-300s - plus another three scheduled for delivery in 2001 - which it operates on routes from Madrid to numerous US, Latin American and South African destinations. Like the rest of the fleet, the new four- engined A340s will be powered by CFM International CFM56-5C4s and will feature a spacious 249-seat layout, with accommodation for five passengers in First class and 42 in Business. The aircraft will also be equipped with the very latest in passenger entertainment and communication systems.

"We view the A340 as the ideal long-range aircraft and it has contributed to our leadership in the highly competitive American market, especially on routes to Latin America where we offer daily links to all main cities", said Xabier de Irala, President of Iberia."

Iberia, an Airbus customer since 1978, has ordered a total of 98 aircraft from Airbus Industrie, comprising 18 A340s and 74 A320 Family aircraft. In addition to the A340, Iberia's in-service fleet comprises four A319s, 43 A320s and two A321s as well as six A300s.

"It is a source of great pride to Airbus that Iberia should renew its confidence in the A340 yet again ", said Noël Forgeard, Airbus Chief Executive Office. "We are delighted to continue supplying this successful customer with the aircraft it requires for growth and greater success in the future."

Airbus Industrie's A330/A340 Family offers the best passenger comfort in its class, consistently emerging as the passengers' choice in independent surveys. It remains the market leader, with over 650 firm orders from almost 60 customers.

Airbus Industrie, which is a partnership between EADS and BAE SYSTEMS, offers the airlines the world's most modern and comprehensive aircraft family. Established just 30 years ago, Airbus has sold nearly 4,100 airliners to around 200 customers and operators since its inception.