Customers have selected Pratt & Whitney's PW1100G turbofan as the lead development engine for the A320neo Family, paving the way for the industrial development phase to begin in earnest. In addition, with total A320neo Family commitments now already in excess of 300, Airbus has responded to this spectacular market reception by bringing forward the entry-into-service from 2016 to October 2015.

The A320neo incorporates new more efficient engines and large "Sharklet" wing tip devices, which together will deliver up to 15 percent in fuel savings. This will represent some 3,600 tonnes less CO2 per aircraft, per year. In addition, the A320neo will provide a double-digit reduction in NOx emissions and reduced engine noise, thus being a good neighbour at any airport where airlines will operate the aircraft.

"The exceptional market demand for the A320neo Family as airlines recognise the operational, economic and environmental advantages which the neo will deliver, has encouraged us to advance the entry into service date to October 2015," says John Leahy, Airbus' Chief Operating Officer, Customers.

"Together with our engine partners, Pratt & Whitney and CFMI, we're making every possible effort to bring the first A320neo aircraft into service for our customers as quickly as possible," he adds.

The A320 Family (A318, A319, A320 and A321) is recognised as the benchmark single-aisle aircraft family. Over 7,000 Airbus A320 Family aircraft have been ordered and over 4,500 delivered to more than 320 customers and operators worldwide. The A320neo will have over 95 percent airframe commonality with the existing models making it an easy fit into existing fleets while offering up to 500 nautical miles (950 kilometres) more range or two tonnes more payload. Engines offered on the A320neo are CFM International's LEAP-X and Pratt & Whitney's PurePower PW1100G.