Signs MoU For 22 Planes, 10 Options

TAM signed a Memorandum of Understanding Friday to acquire 22 Airbus A350 XWB (Xtra Wide Body), models 800 and 900, with 10 more options, to be delivered between 2013 and 2018. The company will be the first in Latin America to have these new aircraft in its long haul fleet.

In addition to the A350s, TAM also confirmed it was exercising four more A330 options, which will be delivered by the manufacturer in 2010 and 2011. At list prices, the total value of the order, less options, is around US$ 5.4 billion.

The A350-800 and 900 aircraft are slated to begin commercial flights in 2013.

TAM's CEO, Marco Antonio Bologna, stated that the new contract with Airbus confirms the company's strategic planning, for growth in the international long-distance market. "We reiterate our commitment to maintain a new and modern fleet, in order to offer a quality product to our passengers," he said.

"To have a customer like TAM confirm its choice for the A350 XWB is a matter of pride for us," said Rafael Alonso, Senior Vice President, Latin America, Caribbean and Spain for Airbus. "We are thankful for this strong endorsement of the A350 XWB program and we are pleased to accompany TAM's successful expansion with the A330s on its long-haul network. We are delighted with this long-standing partnership with TAM and look forward to continuing this relationship in the future."

With the delivery of the four A330s by 2011, TAM will increase its fleet plan, ending 2010 with 138 aircraft in operation and finishing 2011 with 143.

FMI: www.airbus.com, www.tam.com.br