Air India inks pact to induct 14 A320neo aircraft

National carrier Air India on Wednesday signed a pact with a Kuwait-based leasing company ALAFCO for leasing 14 Airbus A320neo aircraft.

The deal was inked on the inaugural day of the India Aviation 2016 which is being held in Hyderabad. The delivery of aircraft is likely to start from early next year.

Speaking on the occasion, Ashwani Lohani, chairman and managing director, Air India, said, "This is a very important partnership for Air India. The A320 aircraft will add strength to our existing fleet and enhance our role as a major player in the domestic market."

The airline officials said the induction would augment Air India's capacity in domestic market. Air India already has strong infrastructure maintenance facilities for the Airbus A320 family.

These A320neo aircraft will come fitted with the new generation CFM leap engines which will reduce noise and emissions, enhance the operational efficiency and reduce fuel consumption by at least 15%.