Europe-based global major aircraft manufacturer Airbus has announced that Air Côte d’Ivoire, the national flag carrier of the West African country of Côte d’Ivoire, had placed a firm order for two A330neo wide body airliners. (The suffix -neo stood for new engine option.) The order was placed as part of the airline’s growth strategy.

The airline currently operated a fleet composed entirely of single-aisle jet airliners and turboprop regional aircraft. These comprised one Airbus A320neo, two A320ceo (ceo=conventional engine option) and three A319 jetliners, and four Bombardier Q400 twin turboprop regional airliners.

The A330neo was the new-generation development of the well-established A330 airliner. As of the end of last month, more than 20 customers, worldwide, had placed firm orders for 275 A330neos.

Equipped with the latest generation engines, fitted with a new wing, and benefitting from a range of other aerodynamic improvements, the A330neo reduced both fuel burn and carbon dioxide emissions by 25%. It had a range of 13 300 km.

“Operating the A330neo side-by-side with its Airbus single-aisle fleet, will enable Air Côte d’Ivoire to benefit from huge operational savings and more flexibility generated by Airbus’ unique commonality among its aircraft family members,” stated the manufacturer. “The A330neo features the award-winning Airspace cabin, providing passengers with a new level of comfort, ambience and design. This includes offering more personal space, larger overhead bins, a new lighting system and the ability to offer the latest in-flight entertainment systems and full connectivity. As with all Airbus aircraft, the A330neo also features a state-of-the-art cabin air system ensuring a clean and safe environment during the flight.”

Air Côte d’Ivoire would use its A330neos to implement its transcontinental growth strategy. They would allow it to efficiently operate long-haul routes.