Air New Zealand gets its first A320 with Sharklets

Air New Zealand has taken delivery of its first A320 equipped with fuel saving wing tip devices, or Sharklets, at a ceremony during the 50th Le Bourget Paris airshow. The aircraft was officially handed over to the airline’s Chief Flight Operations and Safety Officer David Morgan.

Airbus launched the Sharklet during the November 2009 Dubai air show, and Air New Zealand was the first to commit to the fuel saving devices.

Captain David Morgan says, “The A320 is at the core of Air New Zealand’s domestic fleet and the airline is committed to moving all domestic flying to this aircraft type to reap the efficiency gains it offers.”

We are delighted that the launch customer for our Sharklet, Air New Zealand has taken delivery of its first A320 equipped with these fuel saving wing tip devices. The Sharklets deliver a fuel burn reduction of up to four percent and will help Air New Zealand become even more efficient in one of the world’s most competitive markets.” said John Leahy, Chief Operating Officer – Customers.

Air New Zealand will take delivery of a total of 10 Sharklet equipped A320s.

Sharklets are an option on new-build A320 Family aircraft, and standard on all members of the A320neo Family. The new wing tip devices measure 2.4 metres tall, replacing the A320’s current wing tip fence. They offer the flexibility to A320 Family operators of either adding around 100 nautical miles more range or an increased payload capability of up to 450 kilogrammes.

So far over 70 Sharklet aircraft have been delivered to over 20 customers. In total some 44 customers have ordered aircraft equipped with Sharklets.