CDB Aviation delivered the first of a fleet of nine Airbus A321neo aircraft to Indian airline IndiGo, as part of a purchase and leaseback transaction.

The aircraft also marks Airbus’ 1,000th A320neo family aircraft delivery, signifying a historic milestone for its best-selling single aisle fleet.

“We are very pleased to be part of this important delivery, providing support to our partners at IndiGo in advancing their strategic position in the fastest growing aviation market,” said Sign Kadouh, CDB Aviation head of Commercial, Asia Pacific. “The versatility of the A321neos will provide the right capacity for IndiGo’s growing fleet, delivering superior performance and economics. We look forward to deepening our relationship and supporting the IndiGo management’s vision to be India’s leading airline.”

Commenting on the occasion, Ronojoy Dutta, IndiGo CEO, said, “We are delighted to add another A321neo in our fleet as we continue to expand our domestic and international operations. The A320 family has enhanced the cost and fuel-efficiency in IndiGo’s operations and will strengthen this proposition in future, as we aim to build the best air transportation system in the world. I would like to congratulate the Airbus team for delivering their 1000th aircraft. Airbus has been our partner since IndiGo’s inception and as we expand, we wish to continue this journey together, achieving more such milestones. I would also like to congratulate CDB Aviation on the delivery of this aircraft and thank them for their continued support to IndiGo.”

As IndiGo continues to increase connectivity across its network, the A321neo aircraft, equipped with the Pratt & Whitney PW1133G turbofan engines and configured with a 222-seat layout, are expected to generate lower operating costs, while availing the carrier of the advantages of reduced environmental impact and enhanced passenger experience. CDB Aviation anticipates the remaining eight aircraft to be handed over by the end of January 2020.

Peter Chang, CDB Aviation CEO, commented, “The significant scale of this transaction further demonstrates our steadfast commitment to offering wide-ranging solutions to airlines, providing the ideal fleet options they seek, one aircraft or an entire fleet at a time.”

IndiGo is amongst the fastest growing carriers in the world. It has a fleet of over 240 aircraft, with almost 1500 daily flights and connections to 60 domestic destinations and 23 international destinations.