CALC order for 100 A320s significant for South African suppliers

The order comprises 74 A320neo, 16 A320ceo and 10 A321ceo. Including this new order, CALC’s total backlog with Airbus stands at 140 A320 family aircraft. 

The news is also significant for South African suppliers to the A320 family programme, their employees and to their supply chains. Centurion-based Aerosud is the exclusive manufacturer of the avionics bays and wing components for all A320 Family jetliners. Cape Town-based Cobham South Africa makes satellite communications antennae and associated equipment for the A320 and all other Airbus jetliners.  

“Adding these A320 Family aircraft, including the latest generation A320neo to our portfolio, means we can fully meet all our customers’ requirements in terms of low fuel burn, high reliability and unbeatable comfort,” said Dr Mike Poon, CEO and Executive Director of CALC. “The A320 Family is without a doubt firmly established as a key asset in our fleet and the cornerstone of our single-aisle offering.” 

“We are delighted to see CALC, a leading lessor based in the world’s leading growth market, come back for more of our popular A320 Family aircraft and we welcome them as a new customer for the A320neo,” said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers. “This landmark order with CALC demonstrates the continuing strong market demand, in the short, medium and longer term for the current and new generation Airbus single-aisle family.”