Business

SAA, Airbus sign aircraft lease deal

15 March 2010

One of the World's leading aircraft manufacturers, Airbus France has signed a contract with South African Airways (SAA) for the lease of six new planes, the French Minister of Trade said on Thursday.

Anne-Marie Idrac told media in Cape Town that the partnership between SAA and Airbus was a long-term and lavish partnership.

The minister, accompanied by officials of the French Treasury and by high-level executives of State-owned enterprises, met with South African Public Enterprises Minister Barbara Hogan to discuss the strengthening of the relationship and cooperation between South Africa and France.

Entertainment systems, beautiful cabins

Hadi Akoum, Airbus's vice president of sales said the six planes, valued at $1-billion, would be leased to South Africa for 10 years starting January 2011.

The cost of leasing was confidential but would be decided between the airline and Airbus, he said.

The planes would be brand new A330-200s, and would have brand new entertainment systems and "beautiful cabins".

Sapa