SAS orders 30 Airbus A320neo Family aircraft

Fuel-efficient new aircraft fit seamlessly into SAS fleet renewal strategy

SAS has signed a firm order for 30 A320neo Family aircraft, as part of its strategy to streamline its fleet with more fuel-efficient new aircraft.  These new A320neos will join the airline’s existing fleet of eight A321s and four A319s, and enable SAS to transition to an all-Airbus fleet at its prime Copenhagen base. The engine decision will be announced by the airline at a later date. 

The A320neo incorporates new more efficient engines and large "Sharklet" wing tip devices, which together will deliver up to 15 percent in fuel savings. This will represent some 3,600 tonnes less CO₂ per aircraft, per year. In addition, the A320neo will provide a double-digit reduction in NOx emissions and reduced engine noise, thus being a good neighbour at any airport where SAS is operating the aircraft. 

“This aircraft order, on the newest Airbus A320, is a significant and important step in our renewal and harmonization of our aircraft fleet. Through this, we will operate with the market’s most efficient and environmental friendly short- and medium distance aircraft,” says Göran Jansson, SAS Deputy President & Chief Financial Officer. 

“Airbus salutes SAS’ decision to streamline its fleet with our eco-efficient A320neo aircraft,” said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers. “As an evolution of the highly successful A320, the latest in fuel saving technologies, the A320neo is a natural choice for SAS.  It will fit seamlessly into their existing A320 family fleet.”  

SAS has been a customer of Airbus since 1980 and today operates 23 Airbus aircraft, including: 7 A340s; 4 A330s and 12 A320 Family aircraft. 

The A320 Family (A318, A319, A320 and A321) is recognised as the benchmark single-aisle aircraft family. Over 7,000 Airbus A320 Family aircraft have been ordered and more than 4,700 delivered to more than 330 customers and operators worldwide.  

The A320neo will have over 95 percent airframe commonality with the existing models making it an easy fit into existing fleets while offering up to 500 nautical miles (950 kilometres) more range or two tonnes more payload. Since its launch in December 2010, the A320neo has attracted more than 300 commitments. Engines offered on the A320neo are CFM International’s LEAP-X and Pratt & Whitney’s PurePower PW1100G.