Air Baltic converts options for A220s to boost order

Latvian carrier Air Baltic has converted options to firm orders for 10 additional Airbus A220 airliners, bringing the total now on order to 90.

Air Baltic has now placed four orders for the A220 which has proved to suit the airline’s operations.

The airline now operates an all A220 fleet and was the launch customer for the A220-300.

Martin Gauss, President and CEO of airBaltic, said: “For the first time in the company’s history, airBaltic plans to operate a fleet of close to 100 A220-300 aircraft, and these exercised options are the next step in the right direction.

“Over the years, this aircraft type has proven its operational capabilities and value – it has been the backbone of our operations and has played an integral role in the international success story of airBaltic.

“By exercising these options, we are strengthening our unwavering support and trust in the A220 Programme and are looking forward to our fleet expansion over the upcoming years.”

The A220 is a single-aisle airliner designed to carry between 120 and 150 passengers, making it ideal for flights up to 3,600nm as well as regional and domestic routes.

Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Executive Vice President Sales of Airbus Commercial Aircraft business, added: “We are honored and thankful that airBaltic is placing its fourth follow-up order. This latest agreement from Latvia’s flag carrier is a strong endorsement of  the superior value and operational opportunities offered by this latest generation aircraft.

“The A220 is quite simply the most efficient aircraft in its size category, with a spacious cabin driving the best Net Promoter Scores with passengers wherever it is operated, and the range capability to fly non-stop to any destination on the carrier’s current network and beyond.”

As well as offering a 25% lower fuel burn than previous generation aircraft in this class, the A220 can operate on 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) helping to reduce Air Baltic’s carbon footprint. Airbus aims to be able to operate the A220 on 100% SAF by 2030.