The North African carrier EGYPTAIR has completed its second agreement to acquire aircraft at Dubai Airshow 2023.
Early on November 14, 2023, EGYPTAIR and Airbus executives gathered in front of a media audience to announce that the national flag carrier will bolster its fleet with 10 Airbus A350-900.
The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of EGYPTAIR, Yehia Zakaria, confirmed that the first A350 will be delivered in 2025.
The airline head was joined by Airbus Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) and Head of International, Christian Scherer.
“EGYPTAIR is a key partner of Airbus in the Middle East and Africa. We take immense pride in this partnership aimed at furthering the aviation industry. Our focus lies in the enhancement of our fleet to embrace some of the most contemporary aircraft available,” Zakaria said.
The CEO added: “EGYPTAIR has firmed up an agreement with Airbus to procure 10 A350-900 aircraft, each boasting a capacity of 340 seats. These aircraft come equipped with cutting-edge technologies and Rolls-Royce XWB Trent engines, known for their modern design and reduced fuel emissions and consumption. As we tackle growing demand across our network, this aircraft is the optimal choice.”
The deal marks Airbus’ first order for widebody aircraft at Dubai Airshow after airBaltic placed an order for 30 narrowbody A220-300 aircraft on the opening day, with hold options for 20 more.
“Once delivered the A350-900 will be EGYPTAIR’s flagship aircraft. Adding the world’s most modern and efficient widebody aircraft to the airline’s fleet will be instrumental in expanding its offering, opening new opportunities particularly in Western US and the far East,” Scherer said.
EGYPTAIR also announced on November 13, 2023, it had agreed to a leasing agreement with Air Lease Corporation for 18 Boeing 737 MAX 8 jets.
The deal was confirmed at the Dubai Airshow alongside Boeing, with the EGYPTAIR CEO, also confirming that the airline plans to build its fleet of 125 planes by 2028.
EGYPTAIR received its first Airbus A321neo aircraft on February 27, 2023, becoming the first airline in Africa to operate the type.
Once the narrowbody jet touched down in Egypt, it officially became the first aircraft of the type to be operated by an African carrier.
According to ch-aviation.com, EGYPTAIR currently has 66 active aircraft with the Boeing 737-800 dominating the fleet at 27 jets.
There is speculation that Turkish Airlines will announce a large order with Airbus at Dubai Airshow 2023 which will reportedly include the purchase of 85 A350-900s and 15 A350-1000s.
