21 Airlines Operating Airbus A330neos in June

Airlines Operating Airbus A330neos in June

Since its introduction in 2014, the Airbus A330neo family, which includes the smaller A330-800 and the larger, more widely adopted A330-900, has steadily increased its footprint among global carriers. Developed as a next-generation widebody aircraft, the A330neo competes directly with Boeing’s 787 Dreamliner and the forthcoming A321XLR, both targeting long-haul market segments. Despite ongoing challenges in the post-pandemic aviation industry, Airbus maintains an optimistic outlook, anticipating substantial growth in global air traffic and continuing to secure new orders for the A330neo series.

The A330-900: Specifications and Market Presence

The A330-900, the more popular model within the A330neo family, was first delivered to launch customer TAP Air Portugal. It measures 208 feet 8 inches in length, with a wingspan of 210 feet and a height of 55 feet 1 inch. Its advanced aerodynamic design and improved fuel efficiency have made it the preferred choice for many airlines seeking to modernize their long-haul fleets.

Recent developments include Vietjet doubling its A330-900 backlog with an additional 20 aircraft, joining over 20 airlines currently operating the type. As of April 30, Airbus had recorded 372 orders for the A330-900, delivering 150 aircraft to date. The model’s widespread adoption is reflected in its diverse operator base, which includes major carriers such as Delta Air Lines with 34 aircraft, TAP Air Portugal with 19, and Condor with 18. Other notable operators include Cebu Pacific Air and ITA Airways, each with 11 aircraft, as well as Virgin Atlantic, Lion Air, and Garuda Indonesia.

One A330-900 (registration VP-CBJ) is presently undergoing cabin outfitting at EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg ahead of delivery to Desert Wings Aviation, based in Saudi Arabia.

The A330-800: Limited Uptake and Operator Profile

In contrast, the A330-800 has experienced limited market penetration, with only three airlines currently operating the type. Air Greenland operates a single aircraft, Uganda Airlines has two, and Kuwait Airways maintains a fleet of four. Deliveries to these carriers occurred between 2018 and 2022. The remaining backlog includes five undelivered A330-800s, with one allocated to Ireland-based lessor Accipter Holdings and four to Garuda Indonesia. However, Garuda Indonesia’s 2024 annual report confirmed the airline’s decision to cancel its four A330-800 orders as of May 28, 2024, a cancellation that Airbus and Garuda are in the process of formalizing.

Kuwait Airways is unique in operating both A330neo variants. In June, the airline is scheduled to operate its four A330-800s on 31 weekly departures from Kuwait International Airport, according to Cirium Diio data.

Market Outlook

Despite facing stiff competition and an evolving post-COVID-19 environment, the A330neo family continues to expand its operator base and secure new orders. Airbus’s positive forecast for global air traffic growth suggests that the A330neo will remain a significant player in the long-haul aircraft market for the foreseeable future.