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Qatar A320neo delivered to IndiGo
February 3rd 2017
Airbus this week confirmed to Orient Aviation that the first A320neo built and then rejected by Qatar Airways “is now being delivered to IndiGo”. Read More »
IndiGo Airlines became the first neo operator in the Asia-Pacific in March 2016 and now flies eight neos, with another 396 plus 20 larger A321neos, on order.
Qatar Airways was intended to be the launch customer for the A320neo but rejected delivery of the first four jets due to cited Pratt & Whitney (P&W) engine shortcomings.
The Qataris have repeatedly threatened to cancel the order altogether and recently said they were looking to convert the order into commitments for the A321neo. The other three rejected neos remain parked at Airbus’ Toulouse headquarters, but the manufacturer told Orient Aviation “they are now being placed with new customers”.
“We have sold more than 5,000 A320neo Family aircraft to more than 90 customers and there is strong demand for any delivery slots that become available earlier than expected,” Airbus said on Wednesday.
Presenting its third quarter results this week, IndiGo said its operational performance during the quarter was affected by issues with the P&W GTF engines powering its neos. The Gurgaon-headquartered budget carrier said the neo had reduced fuel burn by approximately 15%, but the carrier continues to face operational issues because of engine replacement downtime.
