Airbus announced that it has secured the regulatory approval from the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) of the United States for the first delivery of the A320neo. The two regulatory bodies have jointly approved the model.
The certified aircraft is powered by Pratt & Whitney Pure Power PW1100G-JM engines, the engine unit of United Technologies Corp. The three flight test aircraft powered by Pratt & Whitney engines successfully accumulated over 1,070 flight hours in some 350 flights. Of these 1,070 flight test hours, 300 were completed with the same aircraft in an airline like environment to ensure operational maturity at entry into service, Airbus reports.
"This double seal of approval represents a great achievement for Airbus. It recognises the hard work performed by all the teams at Airbus and Pratt & Whitney. It demonstrates the A320neo is meeting all requirements," said Fabrice Brégier, Airbus President and CEO. "The A320neo is now cleared for its first delivery and ready to offer many airlines its winning combination of unbeatable economics and outstanding cabin comfort."
The A320neo with Pratt & Whitney engines is the first variant in the NEO Family to receive Type Certification. The A320neo with CFM engines will be certified in the coming months, the A321neo and A319neo in both engines variants will follow, Airbus adds.
The A320neo is the fuel-efficient upgrade of its popular single-aisle family. The newest model is reported to be 15% more efficient than the older models. The first planes are promised to be delivered this year. Qatar Airways is set to receive the first A320neos this before the year ends.
Boeing also announced an upgrade to its popular 737 a year after Airbus announced their plans of upgrading their fleet. The first 737 Max is due for delivery in 2017.
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