PERFORMANCE IMPROVEMENTS
Airbus invests more than 100 million euros annually in A320 Family improvements that result in enhanced payload and range capabilities, better performance, easier maintenance and more efficient operations. A significant enhancement was the introduction of large wingtip devices called “Sharklets” – which provide up to four per cent reduction in fuel costs.
Airbus has made these devices increasingly available on A319 jetliners, with the initial delivery of the fuel-saving devices on this shortened-fuselage single-aisle family member to American Airlines in July 2013. Earlier production A319 aircraft can benefit as well, with the announcement of a Sharklet retrofit programme for in-service A319s and A320s – available from 2015.
In addition, Airbus’ A319 will be even more fuel-efficient and eco-friendly with the A319neo (new engine option) now being offered to customers. This option is to deliver significant fuel savings of up to 20 per cent, along with double-digit reductions in CO2 and NOx emissions, additional range and lower operating costs.