Vistara to buy 19 Airbus, Boeing planes worth Rs. 21,344cr
What's the story
In a bid to expand its fleet, Vistara today announced placing orders for a total of 19 Airbus and Boeing aircraft worth $3.1 billion (approx Rs. 21,344cr).
Currently, the airline has 21 aircraft from A320 neo family and plans to add another 50 such planes.
Vistara will place orders for 13 aircraft from A320 neo family of Airbus and six 787-9 Dreamliners from Boeing.
Engine selection
Airline selected LEAP 1-A engines from CFM International for Airbus-aircraft
Vistara said it would also lease another 37 new A320 neo family aircraft from leasing companies.
The airline has selected the LEAP 1-A engines from CFM International for the Airbus aircraft, which are to be delivered between 2019 and 2023.
These aircraft would be used to strengthen its domestic network and to support its international operations planned for later this year, the airline said.
Engines for Boeing
Vistara selected General Electric GEnx-1B engines for Boeing aircrafts
The letter of intent signed with Boeing comprises six firm-ordered 787-9 Dreamliner and purchase rights for four more aircraft from the 787 Dreamliner family, the airline said.
For these planes, the airline has selected General Electric GEnx-1B engines, and delivery is scheduled between 2020 and 2021.
The 787-9s are intended for use on medium-haul and long-haul international routes, it added.
Quote
India is world's fastest growing domestic aviation market
Vistara CEO Leslie Thng said, "India's position as the world's fastest-growing domestic aviation market and its impressive growth in air passenger traffic that has more than doubled over the last decade, makes the airline confident of aggressive plans for domestic expansion and international foray."