Both JetBlue and startup low-cost-carrier ‘Moxy’ have each finalised orders for 60 Airbus A220 aircraft, which were placed as a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in mid-2018.
JetBlue fleet replacement
JetBlue plans to use the A220-300 (formerly called the Bombardier CS300) to replace its current fleet of 60 Embraer E190 aircraft when the first deliveries of its A220 start in 2020. The E190 has been the airline’s regional and commuter fleet since its introduction with the New York based airline in 2005.
The order and fleet replacement program will make JetBlue an all Airbus airline, with the mainline fleet consisting of A320, A321 and soon A321neo aircraft. JetBlue opted for the A220 over the Embraer E195-E2, which it was also evaluating to replace the E190.
JetBlue has previously experienced reliability issues with its E190s, which could have played a part in the airline’s decision. However, it is more likely that JetBlue sees an opportunity for the increased capacity and range of the A220-300 over the E195-E2, given its choice of the -300 model, whereas the A220-100 is much closer in size to the E190.
The airline first signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for 60 Airbus A220-300, with an additional 60 purchase options, in July 2018.
‘Moxy’ order
Announced at the Farnborough Air Show in July 2018, start up airline Moxy is the brainchild of JetBlue, WestJet and Azul Brazilian Airlines founder/co-founder David Neeleman. It comes as no surprise that both airlines have chosen the same aircraft, with Moxy due to start receiving its first A220 in 2021.
Both JetBlue and Moxy’s A220s will be built at a new manufacturing line at Airbus’ US American plant in Mobile, Alabama.
Matt is a Berlin-based writer and reporter for International Flight Network. Originally from London, he has been involved in aviation from a very young age and has a particular focus on aircraft safety, accidents and technical details.
