MIRAMAR, Fla., Oct. 11, 2016 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Spirit Airlines became the first American carrier to receive the Airbus A320neo this week, a state-of-the-art aircraft powered by the Pratt & Whitney PurePower Geared Turbofan (GTF). Considered one of the most fuel-efficient aircraft engines ever made, this revolutionary technology will help improve fuel burn, lower emissions and reduce noise levels.
“This state-of-the-art technology will burn less fuel and lower our operational costs,” said Ted Christie, Spirit Airlines Chief Financial Officer. “We continue to lead the industry in both reducing our carbon footprint and providing ultra-low fares on air travel. Spirit is thrilled to be the first carrier to bring this innovation to the U.S.”
Spirit is set to add five Airbus A320neos to its network by the end of the year. The airline’s Fit Fleet is already one of the youngest and most fuel-efficient in the industry, and this move reinforces Spirit’s commitment to protect the environment and lower its cost structure, resulting in lower fares and even more savings for customers.
“We are proud to have delivered the first A320neo aircraft in the U.S. to our valued customer Spirit Airlines,” said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer – Customers. “The A320neo Family is the aircraft of choice among the world’s airlines and we appreciate our customers’ confidence in our leading single-aisle Family with its unbeatable productivity and fuel efficiency.”
Spirit’s all-Airbus fleet featuring Pratt & Whitney engines maintains an efficient, streamlined operation, offering substantial benefits and consistency to the airline’s inflight, technical operations and maintenance teams. The Airbus A320neo will be the 90 th aircraft to join Spirit’s growing fleet.
"We are honored that Spirit Airlines is a Pratt & Whitney customer and will become the first American carrier of our new engine. Together, we are changing sustainable aviation because of our continued focus on reducing emissions, noise and fuel consumption,” said Rick Deurloo, senior vice president, Commercial Engines, Sales, Marketing, and Customer Service.
About Spirit Airlines: Spirit Airlines (NASDAQ: SAVE ) is committed to offering the lowest total price to the places we fly, on average much lower than other airlines, on average nearly 40% less*. Our customers start with an unbundled, stripped-down Bare Fare™ and get Frill Control™ which allows them to pay only for the options they choose – like bags, seat assignments and refreshments – the things other airlines bake right into their ticket prices. We help people save money and travel more often, create new jobs and stimulate business growth in the communities we serve. Our Fit Fleet is one of the youngest, most fuel-efficient in the U.S. We operate over 400 daily flights to more than 56 destinations in the U.S., Latin America and the Caribbean. Come save with us at www.spirit.com .
*U.S. Department of Transportation statistics
MEDIA NOTE: Spirit aircraft photos and video b-roll are available in the press room section of spirit.com at http://www.spirit.com/Pressrelease.aspx .
Contact: Stephen Schuler 954-364-0231 Stephen.Schuler@spirit.com
