EgyptAir has taken delivery of its first Airbus A321neo from Airbus’ Delivery Centre in Hamburg, making the airline the first African operator of the type. The aircraft, registered as SU-GFR, was delivered to EgyptAir through a lease agreement with AerCap.
The A321neo is the largest-fuselage member of Airbus’ best-selling single-aisle A320 Family and features a 20 percent reduction in fuel consumption and emissions per seat compared to previous generation competing aircraft, accordingtothemanufacturer. This enables EgyptAir to benefit from enhanced efficiency and deliver on its commitment to sustainability, whilst reducing operating costs.
EgyptAir has specified a high comfort, two-class configuration with 16 Business class seats and 166 Economy class seats, increasing the airline’s single aisle capacity to the Middle East, Africa and Europe. With the introduction of the A321neo into commercial service, the airline demonstrates its continuous ambition to expand its Airbus fleet to meet current and future demand.
EgyptAir currently operates twelve Airbus A220s, eight A320neos, two A320ceos, four A330-200s and four A330-300s. In addition, it operates twenty-eight Boeing 737-800s, six 777-300s and six 787-9s.
Airbus’ unique approach ensures that its aircraft families share the highest commonality in airframes, on-board systems, cockpits and handling characteristics, significantly reducing operating costs and maximizing the airline’s profitability.
Moreover, the delivery flight from Hamburg to Cairo was powered by 34 percent Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) blend. SAF is a sustainably-produced aviation fuel made from feedstocks ranging from used fat, oil and grease to municipal and forestry waste. Compared to fossil jet fuel, SAF has been demonstrated to result in an up to 80 percent reduction in CO2 emissions across the entire SAF lifecycle, making it a key enabler to contribute to the decarbonization of aviation.
With the addition of the A321neo, EgyptAir is on track to meet its commitment to sustainable aviation and the reduction of its carbon footprint. The airline is looking forward to expanding its Airbus fleet and to offer its passengers a comfortable and eco-friendly flying experience.
