ITA Airways today received two new Airbus A320neos. The flag carrier of Italy's new twinjets were handed over by Ireland-based leasing powerhouse Avolon. They have joined to help the airline prepare for a busy summer schedule.

Fleet upgrade

The operator began flying the A320neo in its distinct blue livery last month. A flight between Rome Fiumicino Leonardo da Vinci International Airport and Palermo Airport brought in the new era.

The carrier has been keen to enjoy the 20% better fuel efficiency of the neo compared to previous generation productions. The model also comes with a modern cabin fit, allowing passengers to enjoy more comfortable seats. Now, the airline has three additional narrowbodies to deploy across its operations.

Paul Geaney, president and CCO, Avolon, shared the following about the delivery in a company statement:

“We are delighted to support ITA Airways with the delivery of the first A320neos in their fleet. One of our core commitments is to help customers make the transition to fuel efficient new technology aircraft, and this deal demonstrates how a lessor like Avolon can help airlines achieve their sustainability ambitions.”

Francesco Presicce, CTO, ITA Airways, is equally excited. He added:

“The A320neo combines technology and efficiency to deliver 20% less fuel consumption and CO2 emissions per seat compared to previous generation aircraft. It is further enriching ITA Airways modern and environment-friendly fleet, which will feature 80% new generation aircraft by 2026. We are very pleased to be working with Avolon and taking delivery of these new aircraft to serve on our domestic and international network as we look forward to a busy summer 2023.”

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The fleet mix

ITA now has a total of five A320neos in its fleet, with the new additions joining registrations EI-INB and EI-INC, nicknamed Francesco Moser and Klaus Dibiasi, respectively. The carrier is fond of naming its aircraft after famous athletes.

Interestingly, EI-INB was supposed to be delivered to Russia's S7. It was then earmarked for India's Jet Airways before finding its way to Italy.

Thus, the fleet is now made up of the following:

  • 4 x A220-300s
  • 14 x A319-100s
  • 29 x A320-200s
  • 5 x A320neos
  • 8 x A330-200s
  • 6 x A350-900s

Notably, another two A320neos will be delivered by Avolon later this year. This move is part of ITA's goal to have 80% new generation units in its fleet by 2026. In the short term, the aircraft will assist the airline in dealing with the expected high demand this summer. Taking summer 2022 as an example, we can anticipate that the A320 family will be heavily active on short and medium-haul routes, especially across mainland Europe.

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The right balance

With a strong positioning between veteran and modern Airbus narrowbodies and widebodies, ITA will feel ready to take on competition across its network. A potential acquisition will only strengthen the company as it continues to grow since it was finally reborn out of Alitalia in October 2021.

What are your thoughts about ITA Airways' Airbus A320neo aircraft? Are you excited to fly on these planes with the airline? Let us know what you think of the type’s prospects with the carrier in the comment section.

  • ITA Airways Airbus A330 in sky
    ITA Airways
    IATA/ICAO Code:
    AZ/ITY
    Airline Type:
    Full Service Carrier
    Hub(s):
    Rome Fiumicino Airport
    Year Founded:
    2020
    Alliance:
    SkyTeam
    CEO:
    Fabio Lazzerini
    Country:
    Italy