AkzoNobel helps Xiamen Airlines celebrate new arrival in style
AkzoNobel Aerospace Coatings has helped Xiamen Airlines celebrate the arrival of its first Airbus A321neo, one of 40 destined for the Xiamen City-based operator as it looks to further expand its fleet to meet future demand.
AkzoNobel’s Aerobase Basecoat/Clearcoat system was chosen to protect and enhance not only the first of the new Airbus Aircraft to arrive, but also all future deliveries.
Already working with Xiamen Airlines for its Boeing aircraft, AkzoNobel Aerospace Coatings won the new contract in a competitive tender, perfectly matching the airline’s striking blue color scheme. The first aircraft features a special message to the right of the front passenger door that states simply: ‘First Airbus for Xiamenair.’
The aircraft was painted at Airbus’ facility in Hamburg, where the entire A320 jetliner family program is managed. The Aerobase Basecoat/Clearcoat system was chosen for its proven ability to maintain brightness in colour and significantly prolong the durability of the decorative paintwork. Longevity of the livery brand image also reduces the need for maintenance over the life-cycle of the in-service aircraft.
Xiamen Airlines flies more than 40 million passengers each year, operating around 350 domestic and international routes to cover the whole of China and large parts of southeast and northeast Asia. It also flies to Europe, the US and Oceania and currently has more than 200 aircraft in its fleet.
Nicole Hu, Sales Manager (South China) of AkzoNobel Aerospace Coatings says that the introduction of the A321neo is a significant milestone for Xiamen, and for AkzoNobel: “While we have worked with the Xiamen Airlines’ team before, we never take anything for granted. We are delighted that the quality and durability of the Aerobase finish is being recognised as a reflection of the quality and reliability of the Airline, and the quality and reliability of the aircraft it protects.”
Airbus announced a firm order from Xiamen for 40 A321neo aircraft at the end of last year, which at the time made the Chinese airline the company’s newest Airbus customer. The A321neo family incorporates new generation engines and Sharklets, which together deliver more than 25 percent fuel and CO2 savings, as well as a 50 percent noise reduction. The agreement was announced by the major shareholder China Southern Airlines to the Shanghai Stock exchange.
