Mexican ultra-low-cost airline Viva Aerobus has recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the purchase of 90 A321neo aircraft from Airbus.
With this MoU, Viva Aerobus’ total order book for the A320 Family aircraft would reach 170. This strategic move aims to support the airline’s expansion plans for both international and domestic routes.
The CEO of Viva Aerobus, Juan Carlos Zuazua, stated that the addition of these 90 A321neo aircraft, which have a seating capacity of 240, will allow the airline to modernize its fleet and maintain the youngest aircraft fleet in Latin America.
Zuazua remarked that “the advanced technology and operational efficiency of the A321neo will improve our operational reliability, on-time performance, and provide an unmatched passenger experience.”
Moreover, the airline expects to achieve cost-savings that will translate into lower airfares, reinforcing its position as the most affordable airline in the Americas.
The fuel-efficiency and reduced noise emissions of the A321neo will also support Viva Aerobus’ sustainability efforts by immediately reducing carbon emissions.
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Mexican market in ‘full recovery mode’
Christian Scherer, the Chief Commercial Officer and Head of Airbus International, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership with Viva Aerobus since 2013 and highlighted the suitability of the A321neo for the airline’s ultra-low-cost business model.
He mentioned that the Mexican leisure market is currently experiencing a strong recovery, and the A321neo’s exceptional economics make it an ideal choice for Viva Aerobus as it continues to grow.
“The Mexican leisure market is in full recovery mode and Viva Aerobus is at the centre of the action! The unbeatable economics of the A321neo make it the perfect choice for the airline’s ultra-low cost model,” said Scherer.
A321neo and fleet renewal strategy
The A321neo is the largest variant in Airbus’ A320neo Family and offers impressive range and performance.
It incorporates new generation engines and Sharklets, resulting in a 50 percent reduction in noise and over 20 percent fuel savings compared to previous single-aisle aircraft.
Additionally, the A321neo provides passengers with a spacious cabin layout, featuring the widest single-aisle cabin and ample overhead storage space.
Viva Aerobus has based its fleet renewal strategy on the A320 Family, having placed an order for 52 A320 Family aircraft in 2013, which was the largest order for Airbus aircraft by a single Mexican airline at the time.
In 2018, the airline ordered an additional 25 A321neo aircraft. Currently, Viva Aerobus operates 74 A320 Family aircraft.
Summary
Airbus has established a strong presence in Latin America and the Caribbean, having sold over 1,150 aircraft in the region. With more than 750 Airbus aircraft in operation and another 500 on order, the company holds a market share of nearly 60% in terms of in-service passenger aircraft.
Since 1994, Airbus has secured 75% of the net orders in the region, highlighting its leading position and popularity among airlines in Latin America.
