Singapore Airlines finalises order for up to 50 more A350 XWBs

Firm order for 30 A350-900s and 20 options convertible to A350-1000

Singapore Airlines (SIA) has increased its orders for the A350 XWB with an additional 30 A350-900s, plus options for a further 20 aircraft. The agreement firms up a commitment announced last month. Under the terms of the agreement, Singapore Airlines will be able to select either the baseline A350-900 or the larger A350-1000 when exercising the options.

This is the third order from Singapore Airlines for the A350 XWB. The deal sees the carrier's total firm orders for the all-new aircraft increase to 70, plus 20 options. Singapore Airlines will operate the A350 XWB on long haul and regional services.

"We are pleased to announce this latest order from Singapore Airlines as the A350 XWB flight test campaign begins," said John Leahy, Chief Operating Officer, Customers, Airbus. "It's another clear endorsement of our all-new design A350 XWB, bringing a step change in efficiency and comfort to the mid-size widebody market with a single product family."

The A350 XWB (Xtra Wide-Body) is an all-new mid-size long range product line comprising three versions and seating between 270 and 350 passengers in typical three-class layouts. The aircraft will bring new levels of efficiency to the mid-size market, using 25 per cent less fuel than existing aircraft in this size category and providing an equivalent reduction in CO2 emissions.

The extensive flight test programme for the A350 XWB is now underway, following a successful first flight last week. Entry into commercial service of the first customer aircraft is scheduled for the second half of 2014.