JetBlue places order for 65 Airbus A320s

New York low-cost carrier JetBlue Airways has placed an order for a further 65 firm Airbus A320 aircraft, plus options for an additional 50 A320s. The newly ordered aircraft will be delivered starting in 2004 and running through 2011. Each will feature IAE V2500 engines, paralleling the rest of JetBlue's current 41-strong A320 fleet. This new order brings the airline's number of aircraft on firm backlog with Airbus to 111 A320s.

"In the post-September 11th environment and the market complexities that have resulted, it is more critical than ever for the hard-hit U.S. airline industry to rebound," said David Neeleman, CEO of JetBlue Airways. "The best way for JetBlue to take part in this process is through controlled growth with safe, economical and comfortable aircraft. We're confident these newly ordered aircraft will continue to please our Customers, Crewmembers and investors alike."

"With this order, JetBlue demonstrates that with the right people, the right product and the right cost structure, airlines can grow, even in this current, challenging, environment," said Noël Forgeard, Airbus Chief Executive Officer. "As JetBlue continues to conquer the odds, their repeated choice of Airbus aircraft proves that efficiency on all levels, including equipment and operations, is a must for an airline's continuing health."