Garuda Indonesia's $2.5B Airbus Deal

Indonesia's flag carrier Garuda Indonesia Airlines has confirmed a $2.5bn order with European aircraft maker Airbus for 11 A330 jets, which will be used for operating on longer-haul routes in the Asia-Pacific region.

Garuda Indonesia's current deal will allow it to embark on an expansion drive within two years after the EU lifted ban on airline operating in European airspace for safety concerns.

Garuda Indonesia president and CEO, Emirsyah Satar, says, "The A330 has proven to be a key element in the success of the revitalised Garuda Indonesia."

"The low seat mile cost and high passenger appeal make the aircraft a perfect fit for our fleet and a firm favourite with our passengers," Satar added.

The current agreement follows Garuda's order for 25 A320 Airbus jets in a deal, signed in February, worth $2.18bn.

The new Rolls-Royce engine powered A330 aircraft on order are expected to increase the number of A330s by two thirds, which are already delivered or currently on order.

Airbus A330 aircraft features the combined flight-by-wire technology and onboard systems with high aerodynamic efficiency, further enhancing the productivity of the aircraft and can serve 300 passengers in two-cabin arrangement for a range of about 5,450nm.