By Michael Garko, In Airline News
Russia’s second largest airline, Transaero Airlines, has agreed to purchase four Airbus A380 superjumbo jets worth $1.5 billion at list prices. It is the first A380 to be sold to a Russian carrier.
Courtesy Airbus
“Transaero is experienced in operating long-range wide-body aircraft, and is now ready to offer the A380. I am sure that the operation of this high capacity aircraft will stimulate the development of Russia’s aviation sector, in particular airports infrastructure while passengers will benefit from a completely new experience.” said Olga Pleshakova, Transaero Airlines CEO.
Transaero plans to introduce the double-decker jetliner on long-distance flights seating 700 people in a three class cabin, Airbus said in a release.
Currently, only one other airline, Air Austral, has stated it will utilize a high density layout on the superjumbo. The French airline announced earlier that its A380s will use a layout that seats close to the aircraft’s maximum capacity of 853 seats.
“We are very pleased to welcome Transaero as the launch customer for the A380 in Russia,” said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer. “We definitely see market potential for the A380 in Russia. Passenger traffic in this region is expected to increase at an average rate of 5.6 per cent per year over the next 20 years. We are convinced that the A380 is the best and most eco-efficient aircraft to meet those market requirements.”
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