News
Arik Air invests in three Airbus crafts
Arik Air, a private airline based in Nigeria, has recently purchased three Airbus A340-500s. The deal makes Arik Air the latest customer of Airbus.
This acquisition is important for Arik Air, as it will support the airline’s growth strategy to develop Lagos and Abuja hubs. The newly bought Airbus crafts will be use to charter trips to London, New York, and Houston. The A340-500 is powered by Rolls Royce Trent engines that will provide the best possible passenger comfort, in terms of two-class configuration. The planes will be delivered to Arik Air by the end of November 2008.
As cited from the Airbus press release:
"This aircraft order will enable Arik Air to start international connections with new and modern aircraft that will support our objective to become one of Africa’s key airlines that operate at international standards with new aircraft, top maintenance and where security and quality come first", said Mr. Arumemi-Johnson, Chairman of Arik Air.
John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer Customers responded, “Arik Air is one of Africa’s most dynamic airlines and we are proud that they have selected the A340 to develop their international network. With the A340-500 offering outstanding performance, range and unparalleled levels of passenger comfort, I look forward to the start of our partnership. We support their development in and outside Africa".
The A340-500 is the member of Airbus’ A330/A340 Family that flies furthest, and is the most modern aircraft in the 250-375-seater segment flying today. The A340-500, operates the world’s longest-range commercial air routes, the longest linking Singapore non-stop with New York, an 18-hour flight, and as such offers passengers the latest in comfort and in-flight services. With four engines, the A340 offers unrivalled operational economics and flexibility on ultra-long-haul non-stop routes over remote oceans and terrains such as mountain ranges and the Polar Regions.
