easyJet shareholders have greenlit a major order for 157 additional A320neo family airliners, comprising 56 A320neo and 101 A321neo aircraft.
Airbus also confirmed that 35 of the A320neo jets that were part of that existing order will be converted into larger A321neos within the existing order.
The British low-cost carrier first announced the deal in a trading update on October 12, 2023, estimating that the cost of the new aircraft and conversions will reach around $19.9 billion. easyJet also reported being in exclusive negotiations with CFM International for the supply of engines for the proposed purchase.
“This will enable easyJet’s fleet modernization and growth to continue beyond 2028 while providing substantial benefits including cost efficiencies and sustainability improvements,” Johan Lundgren, CEO of easyJet, had said at the time.
The agreement was confirmed by Airbus on December 19, 2023, following shareholder approval.
“Airbus is delighted to be accompanying easyJet in its fleet growth and renewal. Its Airbus fleet allows easyJet to differentiate its offering in its competitive market with the most state-of-the-art, modern and comfortable aircraft,” said Christian Scherer, Chief Commercial Officer and Head of International at Airbus.
The confirmed order will allow easyJet to finalize its fleet replacement initiative for A319 aircraft and substitute roughly half of the A320ceo aircraft in its fleet.