Start-up selects A220-300

Airbus

THERE IS set to be a major new airline in the United States. An as-yet undisclosed carrier has signed a Memorandum of Understanding for 60 Airbus A200-300s, with deliveries scheduled to begin in 2021.

Details about the new airline are sketchy, but the carrier is backed by what an Airbus statement called “a group of experienced investors” led by JetBlue and Azul founder David Neeleman.

Some media outlets in the United States have speculated the yet-to-be-launched new carrier might serve secondary airports and fly long-haul services to Europe and South America.

Neeleman said: “After years of US airline consolidation, the conditions are improving for a new generation of US airline to emerge, focused on passenger service and satisfaction. The A220 will enable us to serve thinner routes in comfort without compromising cost, especially on longer-range missions. With deliveries starting in 2021, we will have ample time to assemble a world-class management team and another winning business model.” Mark Broadbent