CDB Aviation
Airbus A320 Family Programme head Michael Menking with IndiGo chief executive officer Rono Dutta and CDB Aviation Lease Finance senior vice-president Michael Culhane at the aircraft. Credit: CDB Aviation

Aircraft leasing company CDB Aviation has delivered the first Airbus A321neo aircraft to Indian carrier IndiGo under a purchase and leaseback deal.

The aircraft is the first of nine A321neos to be delivered to IndiGo.

With this delivery, Airbus has also reached a milestone as it marks the delivery of the 1,000th A320neo family aircraft.

CDB Aviation Asia Pacific Commercial head Sign Kadouh said: “We are very pleased to be part of this important delivery, providing support to our partners at IndiGo in advancing their strategic position in the fastest growing aviation market.

“The versatility of the A321neos will provide the right capacity for IndiGo’s growing fleet, delivering superior performance and economics. We look forward to deepening our relationship and supporting the IndiGo management’s vision to be India’s leading airline.”

Powered by Pratt & Whitney PW1133G turbofan engines, the A321neo aircraft features a layout of 222 seats.

The aircraft is designed to reduce operating costs and generate lower environmental impact.

The remaining aircraft are expected to be delivered by the end of January.

IndiGo CEO Ronojoy Dutta said: “We are delighted to add another A321neo in our fleet as we continue to expand our domestic and international operations.

“The A320 family has enhanced the cost and fuel-efficiency in IndiGo’s operations and will strengthen this proposition in future, as we aim to build the best air transportation system in the world. I would like to congratulate the Airbus team for delivering their 1,000th aircraft.”