SHARJAH- Air Arabia (G9) is currently leasing additional aircraft to serve its network while it awaits delivery of 120 Airbus A320 family aircraft including the A321XLR.
The carrier expects initial neo deliveries in the second half of 2025, with A321XLRs following in 2027. This order will enable Air Arabia to more than double its fleet size in the coming years.
Air Arabia A321XLR Update
The Air Arabia group presently operates approximately 85 Airbus A320ceos, A321ceos, and A321LRs across its various airline brands.
These brands include Air Arabia Abu Dhabi, Air Arabia Egypt, Air Arabia Maroc, and Fly Jinnah (9P). This diverse fleet composition supports the group’s operations across multiple markets.
At Routes World in Bahrain, Air Arabia CEO Adel Ali addressed the delay in new aircraft deliveries. He attributed this postponement to ongoing supply chain disruptions and reliability concerns in the aviation industry.
To maintain growth despite these setbacks, Air Arabia has increased its aircraft leasing activities.
Ali refrained from providing specific details about the company’s leasing arrangements. However, he revealed that the revised timeline for the neo order partially resulted from Air Arabia’s own request.
This strategic decision suggests the airline is carefully managing its fleet expansion plans in response to market conditions and operational requirements.
Air Arabia Deliveries
The company anticipates initial deliveries in the second half of 2025 due to industry-wide delays. This strategic delay aligns with Air Arabia’s preference for proven technology.
A321XLR deliveries are scheduled for 2027. CEO Adel Ali emphasizes the company’s cautious approach to new aircraft types, preferring to let other airlines test them first.
This strategy minimizes operational risks associated with new aircraft models. The A321XLRs will extend Air Arabia’s range to 8.5 hours, enabling longer-haul operations.
While this range technically allows for transatlantic flights, Ali clarifies that such routes are not part of the airline’s plans. Instead, Air Arabia aims to expand its Middle Eastern operations and extend its reach from Morocco, potentially serving South Africa.
Expansion Plan
Ali outlines specific regional expansion plans. From Morocco, the airline intends to enhance connectivity to the Middle East and further into Russia. Middle Eastern operations will focus on reaching deeper into Africa and across Europe. Ali notes significant untapped potential in the Egyptian market.
Fly Jinnah (9P), Air Arabia’s newest brand in Pakistan, has achieved notable success since its launch two years ago. High load factors demonstrate the venture’s viability independent of the Air Arabia brand. This success validates the company’s diversification strategy.
Ali highlights Fly Jinnah’s unique market approach, focusing on Islamabad and northern Pakistan rather than the saturated Karachi market. This strategy targets underserved routes, positioning the airline for significant growth potential in the Pakistani aviation sector.
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