International Airlines Group (IAG) is to convert eight Airbus A350-900 aircraft options into firm orders and has secured eight A330-200s for Iberia.
The fuel efficient aircraft will replace 16 A340s in Iberia’s long haul fleet and will be delivered between 2015 and 2020.
IAG said it has secured commercial terms for the A350 aircraft, each worth $285 million, as part of a group long haul order announced in April 2013.
The eight A330s will be obtained either by converting existing options from an Airbus order in 2011 or from the operating leases depending on financial and delivery terms.
IAG chief executive Willie Walsh said today: “Iberia has taken significant steps to restructure its business and the progress made so far means that we can bring new long haul aircraft into the airline’s fleet.
“These orders demonstrate our commitment to make Iberia competitive.
“Both aircraft will provide cost efficiencies and environmental benefits, enabling Iberia to replace its long haul fleet with modern and fuel efficient aircraft.
“The new technology and improved aerodynamics will lower fuel burn and CO2 emissions per seat by 18%, as well as providing both noise and NOx performance advantages.
“Retaining an all Airbus long haul fleet will also generate cost savings in maintenance and crewing.”
The Spanish carrier currently has 33 aircraft in its long haul fleet.