International Airlines Group (IAG) has announced that it is converting 10 A320neo family options into firm orders.
The news follows a circular previously published by the company on September 22, 2022, explaining that IAG had options for 10 more A320neo jets.
IAG also explained in a message to shareholders on June 30, 2023, that it had the “option to convert certain aircraft into A321neos”.
These aircraft will be delivered in 2028, to be used by any of the IAG’s current airlines in order to replace A320ceo family aircraft.
“These latest generation aircraft are more cost and fuel efficient than those they will replace and will help towards our commitment to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050” said Luis Gallego, IAG’s CEO.
No details were released on the engine types for the aircraft, but an announcement regarding this is expected nearer the time of delivery.
On June 27, 2023, The Times reported that IAG is open to selling landing slots to Ryanair, in a move designed to help ease its takeover of Air Europa.
The EU’s merger regulator is reportedly looking over the potential purchase of Air Europa and it could force IAG to give up valuable slots.
IAG’s brands include Aer Lingus, British Airways, Vueling, Iberia and LEVEL.