Airbus strikes new deals in Russia

Airbus and Transaero kicked off MAKS 2011 in style with a breakthrough order for eight A320NEOs by the Russian Transaero airline. They will be the first Airbus aircraft in the modern Transaero fleet. Airbus has also cemented its Russian presence signing new agreements with key industry partner VSMPO-Avisma.

Transaero has signed a Memorandum of Understan­ding (MoU) with Airbus to acquire eight A320 NEOs, plus options on a further four. The total value of all 12 airc­raft could be more than USD1.1 billion, depending on the variants selected (ac­cording to list prices).

Airbus and VSMPO-Avisma Corporation have al­so signed an MoU for further strategic collaboration, and the manufacture and supply of value-added products. The partners will widen their activities beyond the supply of titanium raw material and forgings. In addition, VSMPO-Avisma could develop specific new alloys for EADS/Airbus use, while EADS/Airbus may pursue further economic develop­ment opportunities within the ‘Titanium Valley’ of Verkhnaya Salda.

In a related announce­ment, Airbus, Goodrich and VSMPO-Avisma have signed a long-term agreement for the supply of titanium forgings for the A350-1000 main landing gear. The contract covers sup­plies until 2020.

Robert Hewson