Corsican-based airline Air Corsica has received the first Airbus A320neo aircraft on lease from ICBC Leasing.

This delivery makes the carrier the first French airline to operate A320neo aircraft. The operator had placed a lease order for a total of two A320neos.

Powered by CFM International LEAP-1A engines, the single-aisle aircraft is fuel-efficient and will minimise operating costs for Air Corsica.

Configured in a single-class cabin layout, A320neo has a capacity for up to 186 passengers.

The modernised cabin is equipped with new features, including USB ports to charge electronic devices during the flight.

The aircraft’s lavatories are also designed to facilitate access for passengers with reduced mobility.

When delivered, the two Air Corsica A320neo aircraft will operate across the airline’s main domestic and European networks, replacing the carrier’s previous aircraft in its fleet.

Air Corsica is currently operating a fleet of six A320 aircraft.

The A320neo family is fitted with advanced technologies, including new generation engines and Sharklets.

These technologies help reduce fuel burn and noise levels by 20% and 50%, respectively, when compared with previous-generation aircraft.

Air Corsica operates a fleet of 12 aircraft with 660 employees on permanent and contracts.

Until October, Airbus had received firm orders for over 7,000 aircraft of A320neo Family from more than 110 customers worldwide.

Last month, UK low-cost carrier easyJet ordered 12 new A320neos.

The agreement increases the carrier’s total order for the A320neo family to 159 aircraft.