Air France Welcomes Its 50th Airbus A220 and 40th Airbus A350
Air France has reached a significant milestone in its fleet renewal plan with the addition of two aircraft that strengthen its commitment to more efficient operations and a more comfortable travel experience. The airline has taken delivery of its 50th Airbus A220, named “Valbonne,” and its 40th Airbus A350, named “Noirmoutier-en-L’Île.” This expansion is part of a program in which the airline invests over one billion euros annually, maintaining a pace of nearly two deliveries per month.
Airbus A220 “Valbonne,” a New Boost for the Short- and Medium-Haul Network
The Airbus A220 “Valbonne,” registered as F-HPNZ, arrived on November 7th and began commercial service on the 17th of the same month with an inaugural flight to London Heathrow Airport. This aircraft has become a cornerstone in the modernization process of the company’s European network. This plane is the ninth A220 received this year, and Air France expects to add three more units before the end of 2025.
The A220 stands out for its efficiency. The model reduces CO₂ emissions by 20 percent compared to the aircraft it replaces and decreases noise impact by 34 percent. Its cabin, configured with five seats per row, allows eight out of ten passengers to enjoy a window or aisle seat, which typically generates a positive perception among travelers.
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Airbus A350 “Noirmoutier-en-L’Île,” a Reinforcement for the Long-Haul Network
The Airbus A350 registered as F-HUVT was delivered on November 20th and will join long-haul operations in the coming days. With this unit, Air France now operates 40 aircraft of this type, five of which were received this year. The company expects an additional delivery before the end of 2025.
The A350 provides a 25 percent reduction in CO₂ emissions compared to previous models and a 40 percent decrease in its acoustic footprint. It is a key asset in the strategy to move toward more sustainable operations.
A Tradition Honoring French Regions
Air France continues a custom born in the 1930s, inspired by the maritime world, of assigning city names to its aircraft. During different periods, the company chose provinces, birds, castles, constellations, and adjectives to identify its planes. In 2019, it revived the practice and decided to focus solely on city names, aiming to strengthen its connection with French territories and promote French identity worldwide.
Currently, 176 cities are represented in the fleet, including new additions such as “Nîmes” and “Colmar” on the Airbus A350s, or “Mâcon” and “Thonon-les-Bains” on the Airbus A220s. This policy keeps alive a tradition that connects the airline with different regions of the country and reflects its commitment to French culture.
Modernization, Efficiency, and Continuity
The deliveries of the A220 “Valbonne” and the A350 “Noirmoutier-en-L’Île” reinforce a strategy focused on operating modern, quiet, and efficient aircraft. The pace of acquisitions, combined with the positive impact on sustainability and comfort, positions Air France strongly to advance toward its environmental goals and enhance the passenger experience on every journey.
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