EasyJet orders 15 more Airbus planes

Budget airline EasyJet has confirmed an order for 15 Airbus A320 aircraft and switched a deal for the delivery of 20 A319 models to the larger A320 to help it gain share in the European market.

The carrier also said yesterday that it had secured options over a further 33 A320 aircraft, taking its options total to 42, and strengthening its relationship with the European manufacturer.

EasyJet said it had been granted substantial price concessions from Airbus and its engine maker on the total list price of about $1.1 billion (711 million) for the 15 A320s.

Chief executive Carolyn McCall said the orders would help deliver the airline's growth strategy, while providing more flight capacity for passengers. EasyJet said it also continued to maintain a productive dialogue with Boeing on its current and future programmes.