Airbus is Facing Challenges in Reducing Production Costs of A220 Jet
Airbus is facing challenges to reduce the production costs of its A220 jet, which is designed to serve the 100-150 seat market with high efficiency and comfort. The company is also supporting its supply chain, which is under pressure from rising raw materials and labor costs.
The A220 jet is a family of five-abreast narrow-body airliners by Airbus Canada Limited Partnership. It was originally designed by Bombardier and had two years in service as the Bombardier CSeries. The A220 jet has two variants: the A220-100 and the A220-300. The A220-100 can seat up to 135 passengers, while the A220-300 can seat up to 160 passengers. Both variants have a range of up to 3,450nm (6,390km) and are powered by two Pratt & Whitney GTF™ engines that offer lower fuel burn, noise and emissions. The A220 jet has been praised by passengers and operators for its spacious cabin, large windows, generous overhead bins and advanced in-flight entertainment systems. The A220 jet also has the widest seats of any single-aisle aircraft and offers the most legroom in coach.
Airbus acquired a majority stake in the A220 program from Bombardier in 2018 and has since been working to improve its profitability and competitiveness. Airbus has implemented several measures to reduce the costs of the A220 jet, such as increasing the production rate, opening a second final assembly line, negotiating better terms with suppliers, leveraging Airbus’ global network and expertise, and introducing new cabin options and configurations for customers. Airbus aims to achieve break-even on the A220 program by 2025 and expects to deliver more than 400 aircraft by then.
Airbus is also facing challenges from its supply chain, which is struggling with higher costs from raw materials such as steel and aluminum, as well as labor shortages and inflation. Airbus is trying to support its suppliers by sharing best practices, offering long-term contracts and volume guarantees, collaborating on innovation and digitalization projects, and providing financial support and incentives. Airbus recognizes that its supply chain is essential for its success and wants to maintain a strong relationship with its suppliers.
Airbus A220 is a Game-Changer for the 100-150 Seat Market
The A220 jet is a game-changer for the 100-150 seat market because it offers a unique combination of performance, efficiency, and comfort that no other aircraft can match. The A220 jet can open new routes and markets with its long range and low operating costs, enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty with its superior passenger experience, reduce environmental impact with its lower fuel consumption and emissions, and adapt to changing demand with its flexible and versatile seating options. The A220 jet is the ideal aircraft for airlines that want to grow their network, optimize their fleet, and differentiate their brand.