Turkey-based low-cost airline Pegasus Airlines has taken delivery of its first A320neo single-aisle aircraft powered by CFM International’s LEAP-1A engines from Airbus.

This is a part of an order for 100 A320neo family aircraft placed in 2012.

With the delivery, Pegasus has become the world's first carrier to operate the A320neo jet equipped with LEAP-1A engines.

Pegasus Airlines CEO Mehmet Nane said: “This delivery marks the start of Pegasus’ fleet renewal with the most fuel-efficient aircraft, incorporating the latest technologies, aerodynamics, engines and a comfortable cabin.

“We have an ambitious expansion strategy and the A320neo will be the backbone of this.”

“We have an ambitious expansion strategy and the A320neo will be the backbone of this.”

The A320neo family features Sharklet wing tip devices and provides improved fuel consumption and CO2 emissions to the operators.

Upon its entry into service, the aircraft type offers a 15% reduction in fuel consumption and up to a 20% decrease by 2020.

Since its introduction in 2010, the A320neo family has received more than 4,500 orders from 83 customers.

Meanwhile, Ireland’s Aer Lingus has agreed to expand its fleet of A330-300 aircraft by two jets after exercising an option with Airbus.

The airline currently has eight A330s and the new decision sees Aer Lingus’ A330 fleet increase to 12 aircraft.

The carrier currently transports more than 12 million passengers a year to over 70 destinations across Ireland, the UK, Continental Europe and North America.


Image: Pegasus Airlines’ new A320neo aircraft with LEAP-1A engines. Photo: courtesy of Airbus.