Starflyer takes delivery of its first directly purchased Airbus A320

Starflyer, Japan’s fast-growing, value-based airline, has taken delivery of its first ever directly purchased aircraft, an Airbus A320, during a delivery ceremony in Toulouse, France.

The aircraft is the first of three A320s ordered by the company in 2011, and is powered by CFM56-5B4/P engines. It will accommodate 150 passengers in a single-class configuration. Starflyer will deploy the new aircraft to strengthen its network in Japan and to regional destinations.

“Thanks to its best-in-class fuel consumption and high reliability, the A320 has played a key role in Starflyer’s success” said Starflyer President and CEO Shinichi Yonehara. “Furthermore, thanks to the A320’s wide cabin, we will be able to continue offering excellent services to our passengers, which is key to gaining competitive advantages in Japan’s increasingly challenging market.”

Starflyer already operates an all-Airbus fleet of seven leased A320s, the first of which was delivered in Toulouse exactly seven years ago. With today’s aircraft, the airline’s fleet will raise to eight A320s, with another six to be delivered both via lease and direct purchase.

“We are very pleased to see Starflyer take delivery of their first directly purchased A320” said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers. “With its superior performance, economics, passenger cabin comfort and quick turn-around times, the A320 is the best possible aircraft for companies committed to optimising costs while ensuring a great flight experience for their passengers.”