ALAFCO orders a further six A350 XWBs

Leasing company sees surge in demand for larger aircraft models

ALAFCO, the Kuwait-based international Aviation Lease and Finance Company, has signed an agreement for six more Airbus A350 XWB aircraft. This repeat order brings ALAFCO’s  total order for the A350-900 to 18 aircraft. The deal was signed at the 49^th Paris airshow in Le Bourget. 

ALAFCO placed its first order for the A350 XWB in 2007 when it ordered 12 A350-800s. these were later upsized to the larger A350-900 in 2010. The A350-900 typically has a capacity of around 40 more seats than the A350-800. 

“This order reflects a strong recovery in long haul traffic demand from our customer airlines. The A350’s position as the most fuel efficient aircraft in its class is a great asset in our aircraft portfolio,” said Ahmad Al Zabin, ALAFCO’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. 

“This order echoes the market demand for larger more fuel efficient long haul aircraft. We are delighted that ALAFCO has selected our A350-900 as the reference aircraft for their long haul leasing business. To get a repeat order from a lessor, is a great vote of confidence in the A350 XWB,” said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer Customers. 

The A350 XWB (Extra Wide-Body) Family is Airbus’ response to widespread market demand for a series of highly efficient medium-capacity long-range wide-body aircraft. With a range of up to 8,500 nm / 15,600 km, it is available in three basic passenger versions: the A350-800 accommodating 270 passengers, the A350-900 seating 314 and the A350-1000 for 350 passengers in a typical three-class layout. 

The A350 XWB has the widest fuselage in its category, offering unprecedented levels of comfort, the lowest operating costs and lowest seat mile cost of any aircraft in this market segment. With power supplied by two new generation Rolls Royce Trent XWB engines, the A350 XWB Family is designed to confront the challenges of volatile fuel prices, rising passenger expectations and environmental concerns. Orders for the aircraft stand at more than 580 from over 36 customers.