Kuwait’s Aviation Leasing and Finance Company (Alafco) has finalised a new order for 35 Airbus A320neo aircraft.

The contract is an addition to the initial agreement for 50 A320neo aircraft signed during the Dubai Airshow in November 2011.That order was worth $4.6bn. This new order brings Alafco’s total order for the A320neo to 85.

The A320neo offers a 15 per cent reduction in fuel costs.

“Higher fuel prices means airlines require fuel efficient aircraft and with the A320neo offering a 15 per cent fuel burn reduction, it is the ideal investment. The A320neo reduces operating costs while enabling airlines to offer the best cabin comfort levels,”says John Leahy, chief operating officer for customers at Airbus.

The aircraft is expected to be delivered between 2017 and 2021.