Airbus will upgrade 150 American Airlines A320ceo family aircraft with new avionic systems after a deal was signed between the two companies.
As part of the agreement announced on March 10, 2024, the 150 Airbus A320ceo family aircraft will go through multiple avionic systems retrofits which will add valuable modern features such as improved weather events prediction that rely on the latest generation of weather radar.
A new Satellite Based Augmentation System Multi Mode Receiver (SBAS MMR) that enables the latest GPS-based satellite navigation systems for precision approach at airports will also form part of the upgrade.
And so will the latest Air Traffic Services Units (ATSU) standard, which provides improved air-ground communications through the appropriate communication media (VHF data radio).
Airframe upgrades include component and airframe life extension under Airbus’ Extended Service Goal packages.
“Beyond American’s recent acquisition of new Airbus aircraft, these retrofits support the airline’s modernization and simplification of its fleet through avionics and systems upgrades, which in turn provides ever greater operational excellence,” Antoine Morel, Vice-President and Head of Airframe Services for Airbus, said.
Morel added: “Airbus’ integrated approach to complex and long-term solutions helps deliver on our customers’ strategic objectives. We greatly appreciate American’s trust in Airbus and look forward to continuing our strong collaboration.”
Airbus said the retrofits will contribute to “supporting more reliable, efficient and competitive operations” for the A320ceo fleet family at American Airlines in harmony with the latest generation of Airbus A320neo aircraft.