A320

Airbus is reportedly negotiating a potential deal worth around $11bn with China Aircraft Leasing (CALC) for delivery of approximately 100 A320 aircraft.

The Chinese aircraft lessor is expected to sign a memorandum of understanding in the next few days, reported Reuters citing French daily Le Figaro.

CALC is seeking to build its fleet of at least 100 airliners by the end of next year, the French publication added.

The leasing firm is partly owned by state-backed conglomerate China Everbright Group. The company’s shares were listed on the Hong Kong stock exchange earlier this year.

"CALC is seeking to build its fleet of at least 100 airliners by the end of next year."

In 2012, CALC committed to purchasing 36 A320 family airliners, including eight A321s.

China’s leasing market is dominated by the International Lease Finance, GECAS and others who jointly own around 800 aeroplanes that primarily cater to the domestic market.

The A320 was rolled-out in 1987, and it competes with Boeing’s 737 on the global market.

The A320 family jets have logged around 11,000 orders to date, with more than 6,200 already delivered to customers and operators.

The aircraft is claimed to offer lower operating costs compared to other single-aisle jets in the segment, and features Sharklet wing-tip devices that help reduce fuel burn and increase range by 100nm.

Airbus also offers A320 with a new engine option, which is said to consume 20% less fuel per passenger.

Image: The A320 family jets have to date logged around 11,000 orders. Photo: courtesy of S Ramadier / Airbus SAS.

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