CIT Aerospace signs deal for new Airbus widebody range

CIT Aerospace has signed purchase agreements with Airbus for 15 A330-900 new engine option (neo) aircraft, to be delivered from 2018, and five A321-200 current engine option (ceo) aircraft, with deliveries of these scheduled to begin in 2015.

“Given our long-term leadership on the A330 program, we are proud to be one of the first customers to sign a purchase agreement for the all-new A330neo aircraft,” said Jeff Knittel, president of CIT transportation and international finance. “These agreements will enable us to provide fuel efficient solutions to our customers as CIT continues to be a leader in providing early access to the most sought after aircraft for our customers.”

The A330-800neo and the A330-900neo are two new members of the Airbus widebody family launched in July 2014 with first deliveries scheduled to start in Q4 2017. The A330neo incorporates latest generation Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines, aerodynamic enhancements and new cabin features, as well a range increase of up to 400 nautical miles and a 14% reduction in fuel consumption per seat.

John Leahy, Airbus chief operating officer, customers, said: “When a leading lessor, CIT, adds the A330neo to its already extensive Airbus widebody portfolio of A330ceo’s and A350-900s, we take that as clear confirmation of our widebody family strategy fully meeting the requirements and expectations of the market.”