Airbus has delivered the first of five new A320neo aircraft to Brussels Airlines. The aircraft are part of the airline’s fleet renewal strategy to reach its ambitious sustainability targets.

The airline aims to cut its net carbon emissions in half by 2030 compared to 2019 and plans to be carbon neutral by 2050.

The A320neo will help it achieve these goals thanks for the new-generation CFM International LEAP-1A engines for more efficiency and Sharklets for improved aerodynamics. It will reduce CO2 emissions by at least 20% and is also 50% quieter compared to previous generation aircraft.

Dorothea von Boxberg, CEO, Brussels Airlines, commented, “It is crucial for us to modernize our fleet to be able to reduce our carbon footprint. The A320neo reduces both noise and CO2 footprint significantly compared to the current generation of A320s. We are happy to get the first brand-new aircraft directly from Airbus in Toulouse, to be followed by 4 more by the end of next year. This is a milestone in our history, so today is really a moment of pride.”

The new A320neo features a single class layout with 180 seats. New baggage compartments mean the aircraft can hold 60% more suitcases as they can be stowed vertically.

The cabin also includes a flexible lighting system, which adapts to passengers’ biorhythms depending on the phase of the flight and time of day, illuminating the cabin in either warm orange or cooler blue tones.

The aircraft will join Brussels Airlines’ all Airbus fleet of 43 aircraft, including 34 A320 Family aircraft and nine A330-300s. Perfectly sized for the European market, the new aircraft will enter into service on the carrier’s short- to medium-haul network.

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