New Star On The Horizon

When Airbus completed its acquisition of Bombardier’s CSeries aircraft programme and became a majority stakeholder with 50.01 percent, it was seen as a step in the right direction by operators. And rightly so because Airbus wants to target the 100-150 seat market with the new addition in its family, reports C SANTHOSH.

Airbus has completed its acquisition of Bombardier’s CSeries aircraft programme and the type has been renamed A220 by the European aircraft manufacturer. The newly renamed A220 family will target the 100 to 150 seat market, complementing Airbus’ bestselling A320neo family. Unveiled in new Airbus livery in July, the A220 also made its maiden appearance at the Farnborough Airshow, where it attracted strong interest. The new A220 family benefits from the clean-sheet design which makes it lighter and able to carry more passengers over longer distances as compared to 737 Max and A320 NEO family. The direct competition for the A220 in terms of market segment are the B7377MAX (typically 126-149 seats) and the A319 NEO (typically 124-156 seats).

Formerly Bombardier’s CSeries (CS100 and CS300), the new A220 family comprises the A220-100 and A220-300. Airbus will now be able to cover the market segment between 100 and 150 seats, with the A220-100 and A220-300, without having to invest billions of dollars in the development of an all-new aircraft. “The A220 is now a full member of our family and we are all ready to unleash the full potential of this aircraft for the benefit of our customers, shareholders, passengers and employees,” said Guillaume Faury, Airbus President Commercial Aircraft, following the unveil of the A220. The A220-300 is powered by Pratt & Whitney GTF engines and along with its advanced aerodynamics, extensive use of Carbon Fiber Reinforced Thermoplastic (CFRP) materials, and fly-by-wire controls, will deliver 20 percent lower fuel burn per seat compared with previous generation single-aisle jetliners.