Croatia Airlines has signed a firm order for six
Airbus A220-300 aircraft and unveiled plans to lease an additional
nine A220s, taking its total commitment for the type to 15.
The A220s will replace previous generation
aircraft, helping the Zagreb-based airline to reduce operating
costs as well as improving environmental efficiency.
Airbus and Croatia airlines have had a
long-standing partnership that started 25 years ago when the airline
first became an Airbus operator. Today, the Croatian national carrier
operates an Airbus fleet of seven single-aisle aircraft from the
A320 Family – five A319s and two A320s.
“Today’s signing of a contract for the purchase of
state-of-the-art Airbus aircraft is a very special moment for all
of us at Croatia Airlines,” said Jasmin Bajić, CEO and President of
the Management Board of Croatia Airlines. “It marks the beginning
of a new period of aviation, a new period in the life of Croatia
Airlines, a new period for our passengers, and a new period for
Croatia’s tourism and economy as a whole.”
The A220, formerly known as the Bombardier CSeries,
is purpose-built for the 100 to 150-seat market and is powered by Pratt & Whitney’s latest generation GTF engines.
According to Airbus, the A220 delivers a 50% reduced noise footprint, up to 25% lower
fuel burn per seat and CO2 emissions when compared to previous
generation aircraft, as well as around 50% lower NOx emissions
than industry standards.
“We are thrilled to add Croatia Airlines as a new
A220 customer. The A220 is ideally suited to Croatia’s aviation
needs, providing operational flexibility and efficiency allowing
its airline to pursue its ambition for both regional and
international connectivity without compromising on any aspect, be
it passenger comfort or trip and seat cost economics,” said
Christian Scherer, Airbus Chief Commercial Officer and Head of
International.
To date, more than 70 million passengers have
enjoyed flying on the A220. The fleet is currently flying on over
800 routes and 325 destinations worldwide.
