Oders 32 Airbus Jets, As Well As Two 777-300s
Brazil’s largest airline has signed a Memorandum of
Understanding for 32 Airbus A320 aircraft, 22 of which are the new
A320neo airplanes, while placeing an order for two new
Boeing 777-300ERs as well. 10 A320 Family aircraft were also
included in the Airbus MoU.
TAM A320
The order makes TAM the launch customer for the A320neo in Latin
America. Engine selection will be announced by the airline at a
later date.
The A320neo, which will begin deliveries in 2016, incorporates
new more efficient engines and large wing tip devices called
Sharklets, which Airbus says delivers fuel savings of up to 15
percent, representing up to 3,600 tonnes CO2 annually per aircraft.
In addition, the A320neo provides a double-digit reduction in NOx
emissions and significantly reduced engine noise, according to the
planemaker.
“Our order for industry leading fuel efficient aircraft
opens a world of possibilities for TAM, thanks to its substantially
increased range capability,” said Líbano Barroso, CEO
of TAM Airlines. “Ordering more A320s allows TAM to reduce
costs and further improve our environmental performance.”
“The A320neo will fit neatly into TAM Airlines’
fleet, offering maximum benefit for minimum change,” said
John Leahy, Chief Operating Officer, Customers. “This
enables TAM to take full advantage of Brazil’s expected
growth in air travel, especially in light of the upcoming World Cup
and Olympic Games, and to do so in the most eco-efficient way
possible”.
The Brazilian carrier has also ordered two additional 777-300ERs
(extended range) with two purchase rights. The order, announced
Monday, is valued at approximately $568 million at current list
prices and brings TAM's total number of 777s to 12.
TAM B777
"TAM continues to position itself as one of the world's leading
airlines," said Marlin Dailey, vice president of Sales &
Marketing for Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "We are pleased TAM
continues to choose Boeing's 777-300ER for its long-haul fleet
needs and look forward to working together with TAM as they grow
their international network."
Boeing says the 777 is the market leader in the 300 to 400 seat
market. "These additional airplanes will help us expand our
long-haul service capability to meet the growing market demand in
Brazil and beyond," said Marco Antonio Bologna, chief executive
officer, TAM Holdings.
"The Brazilian aviation market continues to grow at a rapid
pace. The 777-300ER provides us the performance and versatility we
need to develop our network competitively and capitalize on robust
international traffic growth," added Libano Barroso, chief
executive officer, TAM Airlines.