Airlines Kuwait Airways receives first A320neo

The latest operator of Airbus´ popular A320neo family is Kuwait Airways. This week, the carrier took delivery of 9H-ALK, the first of 15 A320neo aircraft to come. The delivery marked a milestone for the airline, as celebrations over the 65th anniversary are still ongoing.

This first delivery originates from a firm order signed back in 2014. In total, Kuwait Airways will take delivery of 15 A320neo aircraft in the coming years. The carrier wants to modernize and expand its fleet for a better passenger experience and bettered operational performances. In coming years, Kuwait will phase out some of its leased A320ceo aircraft.

Airbus wrote in a statement: "The A320neo will boost the airline’s profitability with the world’s most advanced and fuel-efficient single-aisle aircraft. Kuwait Airways’ new A320neo is powered by CFM International LEAP-1A engines and is configured in a spacious two-class layout, including 12 business class and 122 economy class seats. The aircraft offers the widest single-aisle cabin in the market with unmatched comfort in all classes. It also provides the latest inflight entertainment technology."

Initially, the first delivery of an Airbus A320neo aircraft to Kuwait was planned for March 2019, but deliveries had been delayed. Further deliveries are set to take place this year. In addition to the new backbone for medium-haul routes, Kuwait has also ordered state-of-the-art Airbus A330-800neo aircraft.

After the carrier experienced heavy drops in its revenue in the last months, Kuwait now hopes that it can repair these results with the state-of-the-art aircraft. Together with the eight A330neos, the fleet will be one of the most modern in the world.

Airbus´ A320neo is the world´s best-selling single-aisle aircraft family. To date, the manufacturer has received over 6,600 orders from more than 100 customers around the world. Latest technologies onboard and advanced aerodynamics lead to 20 percent less fuel needed per seat.

Kuwait Airways is the national carrier of Kuwait and was founded in 1953. The carrier commenced operations a year later in March. Main operational hub is at Kuwait International Airport and the headquarters are in Kuwait as well. Currently, the fleet consists of 13 Airbus A320ceos, one A320neo, five A330-200s and ten Boeing 777-300ERs.