Eco-friendly aircraft arrives in Clark

CLARK FREEPORT – Clark International Airport became part of aviation history when the world’s first Airbus A320 with Sharklets arrived on Wednesday, carrying 180 passengers from Kuala Lumpur,Malaysia.

The newly designed wing-tip devices of the Airbus A320 with Sharklets reduce fuel burn and emissions by improving the aerodynamics of the aircraft.

Aside from this, the Sharklets offer the flexibility of either adding around 100 nautical miles more range or allowing increased payload capability of up to 450 kilograms.

The said aircraft is being operated by low cost carrier AirAsia Berhad Malaysia.

“We are honored to be part of a history that enables people to move and connect via modern and efficient way. AirAsia’s state-of-the-art and environment-friendly aircraft will certainly redefine air travel experience in the country and in our neighboring countries in Asia,” Victor Jose Luciano, Clark International Airport Corporation president, said.

AirAsia Inc. Chief Executive Officer Maan Hontiveros said they always believe in embracing technological advancements.

“These new wing tip devices installed in our Airbus A320 will contribute to fulfilling our goal of being the most efficient, innovative low cost airline in the world. More important, these new Airbus A320 with Sharklets aircraft will enable savings of four percent in fuel consumption, corresponding to an annual carbon reduction of around 1,000 tons  per aircraft,” she said.

“This advancement will also put AirAsia ahead of the competition as we continue to be the frontrunners in the aviation industry -- in line with AirAsia’s rapid expansion plans to grow throughout the Asian region,” Hontiveros added.

AirAsia recently placed a new order of 100 more Airbus A320 aircraft including 36 A320ceo aircraft with Sharklets. Altogether, AirAsia has ordered 475 single aisle aircraft from Airbus, comprising 264 A320neo and 211 A320ceo.

In 2013, through combination of firm Airbus deliveries and leases – AirAsia Malaysia will take delivery of 10 aircraft, AirAsia Thailand – eight aircraft, AirAsia Indonesia – nine aircraft, AirAsia Japan – four aircraft and Philippines’ AirAsia – three aircraft.

“Our guests can look forward to new routes from AirAsia this year as we add connectivity to other parts of Asia as well as increase frequency to existing routes making air transport via Clark International Airport more exciting than ever,” Hontiveros said.