Air Arabia, the Middle East and North Africa’s largest low-cost carrier, has taken delivery of its first Airbus A320neo aircraft, marking a key step in the airline’s ongoing fleet growth strategy. The new aircraft is the first of 120 from a major order placed with Airbus in 2019, which includes 73 A320neo, 27 A321neo, and 20 A321XLR jets.
The arrival marks the beginning of a significant fleet renewal and expansion programme as the airline looks to strengthen its network, improve fuel efficiency, and support more sustainable operations across its growing markets. Air Arabia currently operates a fleet of 83 Airbus A320 Family aircraft.
A special ceremony was held at Sharjah International Airport to mark the occasion, attended by Sheikh Abdullah Bin Mohammad Al Thani, Chairman of Air Arabia; HE Sheikh Khalid Bin Issam Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Department of Civil Aviation; HE Ali Salim Al Midfa, Chairman of Sharjah Airport Authority; and Adel Al Ali, Group Chief Executive Officer of Air Arabia, alongside senior executives from the airline and the airport.
Sheikh Abdullah Bin Mohammad Al Thani described the delivery as a milestone moment for the company.
“The delivery of the first aircraft from our Airbus order marks an important milestone in Air Arabia’s growth and fleet development strategy. As we continue to strengthen our fleet, we remain committed to operational efficiency, innovation and sustainability, while ensuring comfort and value for our passengers,” he said.
He added: “Over the years, our existing fleet and cabin configuration has supported reliable operations and passenger experience. The introduction of the A320neo will further enhance our operational performance and support our continued expansion into new markets. We remain focused to adopting the latest technology to drive efficiency across all aspects of our operations.”
The new A320neo is scheduled to begin commercial service on 1 October 2025, with its inaugural flight operating on the route between Sharjah and Bangkok.
This delivery marks part of Air Arabia’s second major aircraft order with Airbus, following its 2007 deal for 49 A320 aircraft. The new aircraft will support the airline’s multi-hub operations across Sharjah, Abu Dhabi, Ras Al Khaimah, Morocco, Egypt, and Pakistan, including its joint venture Fly Jinnah. Additional deliveries are expected before the end of the year, further boosting fleet capacity to meet growing demand.
The latest addition to the fleet is powered by CFM LEAP-1A engines and fitted with Airbus’s distinctive Sharklets, delivering up to 20% reductions in fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions. These performance gains align with Air Arabia’s long-term sustainability agenda and ambition to minimise its environmental impact while continuing to expand its network and maintain competitive operations.
The aircraft maintains Air Arabia’s signature single-class configuration with 174 seats, offering one of the most spacious economy cabins in its category. With a flight range of up to six hours, the A320neo provides increased route flexibility and expanded network reach.
Passengers will also benefit from onboard amenities including “SkyTime”, Air Arabia’s complimentary in-flight streaming service, and “SkyCafe”, the airline’s onboard dining offering, designed to enhance the overall travel experience.
The addition of the A320neo is a strategic step for Air Arabia as it continues to scale its operations, improve fuel efficiency, and deliver cost-effective travel options to passengers while maintaining a focus on comfort and service quality.
