Condor Celebrates Arrival of First A320neo as Part of Fleet Modernization

Condor, the German leisure airline based in Frankfurt, has taken a significant step in modernizing its fleet with the arrival of its first Airbus A320-200N. The aircraft, registered D-ANCZ (msn 12031), was delivered on April 24, 2024, from Toulouse Blagnac to Frankfurt International, marking a key milestone in the airline’s fleet renewal strategy.

Leased from Avolon, this new A320neo is configured to accommodate up to 180 passengers in a single-class layout. Condor is set to introduce the aircraft into commercial service on May 15, 2024, with its inaugural flight scheduled to Palma de Mallorca. This introduction is part of Condor’s broader plan to incorporate 41 new-generation narrowbody aircraft into its fleet by 2029, including thirteen A320-200Ns and twenty-eight A321-200Ns. The first A321neo is expected to join the fleet in June 2024.

The majority of these new aircraft will be sourced from various leasing companies rather than directly from Airbus, with only two units of each type ordered directly from the manufacturer. According to fleet data from ch-aviation, BOC Aviation and Air Lease Corporation are among the lessors providing these next-generation aircraft, contributing at least two A320neos and seventeen A321neos, respectively.

This fleet enhancement follows the retirement of Condor’s last Boeing 767-300ERs and the recent completion of its widebody fleet renewal, which now includes fifteen Airbus A330-900s, with an additional eight on the way, comprising four from Airbus and four from lessors such as AerCap.

Condor’s ongoing fleet renewal began following the airline’s acquisition by Attestor Capital in 2021 and is aimed at replacing its existing narrowbody fleet of twelve A320-200s, thirteen A321-200s, and nine B757-300s. The shift to newer, more fuel-efficient aircraft like the A320neo and A321neo will not only enhance Condor’s operational efficiency but also improve its environmental footprint, aligning with broader aviation industry goals for sustainability.

The modernization of Condor’s fleet represents a strategic move to strengthen its position in the competitive European leisure travel market, ensuring that it continues to offer high-quality and efficient service to its customers.