Global aircraft leasing group AerCap Holdings has delivered the first of five Airbus A320neo aircraft on lease to US-based low-cost carrier Spirit Airlines.

The delivery has made Spirit Airlines the first US airline to operate the A320neo aircraft type.

The carrier expects to receive the remaining four aircraft on lease from AerCap through this year.

Delivered as part of a previously placed order for 55 A320neo family aircraft, Spirit Airlines’ new plane is equipped with Pratt & Whitney Pure Power PW1100-JM engines.

Airbus said the remaining aircraft delivered to Spirit Airlines would also be powered by the similar engine type.

Spirit Airlines chief financial officer Ted Christie said: “This state-of-the-art technology will burn less fuel and lower our operational costs.

"This state-of-the-art technology will burn less fuel and lower our operational costs."

“We continue to lead the industry in both reducing our carbon footprint and providing ultra-low fares on air travel.”

With the latest delivery, the airline aims to expand its all-Airbus fleet with better efficiency.

Featuring a single-aisle cabin with expanded space, the A320neo family is powered by new generation engines and Sharklets, which together deliver more than 15% fuel savings initially and 20% by 2020.

Since its launch in 2010, Airbus has received a total of 4,800 orders for the A320neo family from 87 customers worldwide.

So far, nine operators worldwide have received 26 A320neo aircraft.

Image: Spirit Airlines’ new A320neo aircraft. Photo: courtesy of Airbus SAS.