Airblue is all set to acquire the first-ever Airbus A321 NEO (New Engine Option) in comings months as the aircraft is getting ready. At the beginning of this year, Airblue mentioned that they are planning to take more aircraft directly from Airbus. Airblue is the first private airline in Pakistan to get a brand new aircraft from the manufacturer directly. Airblue has 2 Airbus A321s on order and it was expected to recieve these aircraft around this time of the year. But now deliveries are likely to take place early next year.
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Airblue in the past placed firm orders for 10 Airbus jets in August 2005. The order consisted of eight A320-200s and two A330-200s. The airline also agreed to options on six A320s. The deal at that time was valued at $790 million at list prices, although airlines typically negotiate discounts. The airline had to change plans and it took deliveries of 4 aircraft. Its Airbus A321 AP-BMW was received on 04/09/2016. It received its Airbus A320 AP-EDA on 16/12/2010, AP-EDG on 17/12/2013, AP-EDH on 24/01/2014.
Pakistan’s AirBlue also placed a $185 million order for CFM56-5B engines to power 14 Airbus A320 aircraft that it was supposed to receive from 2009. In addition, airline also signed an integrated services package that will cover the maintenance, overhaul and repair of this fleet.