With Alitalia in some kind of disorder following financial under-achievement, Air One - now Italy”s second largest airline - has taken a significant step forward. Last week the Rome-based airline took delivery of the first of 30 Airbus A320 series aircraft due over the next few years. Air One already serves 23 domestic and six international destinations and plans to use these new aircraft on existing and new routes in Europe. The carrier”s six Boeing 737s are being disposed of.
”Our first A320 is further proof of how Air One is improving quality and services for customers in line with our strategy and growth objectives. The complete renewal of our fleet is once again an indication of our attention to meeting our customers” needs,” said Air One president Carlo Toto.
New Airbus president and CEO Louis Gallois was quick to jump in with some good news. ”We are pleased that Air One has made the choice of our efficient A320, strengthening our presence in Italy. And we are proud to accompany Air One in its strategy for growth,” he said. ”We look forward to seeing many more Air One A320s across the European skies.”
Air One has selected the CFM International CFM56-5B engines for all its A320s. In terms of cabin configuration, the airline has chosen a two-class cabin layout for up to 159 passengers. This layout not only offers a comfortable business class, but also the advantages of a wider cabin and therefore more personal space in economy class.