ALAFCO, the Kuwait-based international Aviation Lease and Finance Company, has converted its existing firm order for 12 Airbus A350-800’s placed in 2007, into the higher capacity A350 -900 model. The A350-900 is the first of the three members of the A350 XWB family to be introduced and will enter service in mid 2013.

ALAFCO’s main shareholder is Kuwait Finance House. ALAFCO specialises in Sharia-based commercial aircraft leasing. “Our customers are seeing rapid recovery in demand. The A350-900 is best suited to meet the needs of our customers in the decades to come. The A350 XWB will be a strong asset in our portfolio,” said Ahmad Al Zabin, ALAFCO’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer.

“Growth in the industry is undeniable. As passenger traffic begins to recover, we are delighted that ALAFCO have chosen the most popular A350 XWB model. This decision is further evidence of a wider industry trend towards larger aircraft,” said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer Customers.

The A350-900 typically has a capacity of around 40 more seats than the smaller 800 model.

The A350 XWB (Xtra Wide-Body) Family is Airbus’ response to widespread market demand for a series of highly efficient medium-capacity long-range wide-body aircraft. With a range of up to 8,300 nm / 15,400 km, it is available in three basic passenger versions: the A350-800 accommodating 270 passengers, the A350-900 seating 314 and the A350-1000 for 350 passengers in a typical three-class layout.

The A350 XWB has the widest fuselage in its category, offering unprecedented levels of comfort, the lowest operating costs and lowest seat mile cost of any aircraft in this market segment. With power supplied by two new generation Rolls Royce Trent XWB engines, the A350 XWB Family is designed to confront the challenges of volatile fuel prices, rising passenger expectations and environmental concerns. Orders for the aircraft stand at more than 530 from over 33 customers.

Source: Press Release (ALAFCO)