Saudi Arabian Airlines, Saudi Arabias
national airline, has become the newest operator of the Airbus A330,
after taking delivery of its first long range Airbus aircraft in almost
30 years. The aircraft was delivered at a ceremony in Toulouse
attended by His Excellency Engineer Khalid al Molhem, Director General
of Saudi Arabian Airlines, and John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating
Officer, Customers.
The
Rolls-Royce powered A330-300, is the first to be delivered from an
order for eight aircraft signed in July 2008. The delivery takes the
number of customers and operators of the worlds most popular twin aisle
medium to long haul aircraft to 140.
"We
are seeing rising passenger demand and with unbeatable economics and
passenger comfort, the A330 is the ideal aircraft. Together with our new
Airbus A320s, our A330s will allow us to get the maximum efficiency
from flying two aircraft families which share common controls and
maintenance, said His Excellency Engineer Khalid al Molhem.
It
is a remarkable achievement that the Airbus A330 has become essential
to Saudi Arabian Airlines fleet modernisation. The A330 is todays
leading medium to long range twin aisle aircraft, with market leading
productivity and proven reliability. The aircraft will also meet the
most demanding passenger comfort expectations, said John Leahy.
The
Airbus A330 remains the most economic means of flying some 300
passengers on medium range routes in true long haul comfort. As well as
offering unbeatable operating economics and productivity, the A330 is
also one of the worlds most fuel efficient aircraft.
Saudi Arabian Airlines receives first Airbus A330