ALAFCO Aviation Lease and Finance Company, the Kuwait-based international aircraft leasing company, has finalized a purchase order for 35 A320neo Family aircraft bringing its total backlog for the type to 85.

The firm contract is an increase of the previous agreement signed at the 2011 Dubai Air Show for 50 A320neo aircraft.

“After a full analysis, we concluded that the A320neo will continue to be in strong demand, therefore, we are seizing the opportunity to secure an additional 35 aircraft to meet the future requirements of our customers.  The A320neo is the market’s favorite single-aisle aircraft family,” said Ahmad A. Alzabin, ALAFCO Chairman & CEO.

“The significant fuel burn savings it offers, combined with the operational reliability and cost effectiveness of the A320 Family, make it an absolute “must have” in our portfolio,” he added.

“Higher fuel prices means airlines require fuel efficient aircraft and with the A320neo offering a 15 per cent fuel burn reduction, it is the ideal investment. The A320neo reduces operating costs whilst enabling airlines to offer the best cabin comfort levels,” said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer Customers.

“This significant order from ALFACO confirms that the neo ticks all the right boxes and is clearly the best product on the market,” Leahy added.