ITA Airways Takes Delivery of its First A330neo Aircraft

Photo source: ITA Airways

ITA Airways, Italy’s national carrier, on Friday took delivery of its first A330-900 aircraft, during a ceremony held at the Airbus Delivery Center in Toulouse. The A330neo will join the ITA Airways fleet in June to serve its long-haul routes and new intercontinental destinations.

With the introduction of the latest generation eco-efficient A330neo, ITA Airways continues its fleet modernisation to meet its ambitious sustainability targets. To further support this ambition the delivery flight was powered by a 16 percent blend of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).

During the delivery ceremony, ITA Airways Chief Technology Officer Francesco Presicce said the airline’s strategic partnership with Airbus was taking one step forward.

“I am delighted to be here in person at the Toulouse headquarter on the occasion of the delivery of the first Airbus A330neo completely built according to ITA Airways’ new cabin design,” Presicce said.

The A330neo delivers unbeatable operating economics and boasts an award-winning Airspace cabin with more passenger space, a new lighting system, the latest in-flight entertainment systems and full connectivity throughout the cabin.

Photo source: ITA Airways

“With Airbus, the unique aircraft supplier for our fleet, we have created a special synergy from the beginning, involving different areas of collaboration and business development, always with the aim of realising a more modern, comfortable and fuel-efficient air mobility, equipped with cutting-edge technologies,” Presicce added.

The A330neo features 30 full lie-flat bed business class seats, 24 premium and 237 latest generation economy class seats of which, 36 are dedicated to comfort economy. All seats will be equipped with on demand video and audio content as well as full WiFi connectivity and highly customisable mood lighting throughout the cabin.

ITA Airways’ new Airbus is dedicated to Gelindo Bordin, the marathon runner and Olympic champion, and follows the airline’s strategy of dedicating its Blue Savoia liveried aircraft to Italian sports champions.

The A330neo is the latest-generation aircraft type from Airbus to join the ITA Airways’ fleet and strengthens the company’s strategy of building a fleet entirely featuring Airbus aircraft, with 68 currently in operation (4 A220s, 50 A320 Family, 8 A330-200s and 6 A350-900s).