HAMBURG, Germany, June 24. A handover ceremony took place in Hamburg marking the delivery of the first Airbus A321neo aircraft to Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL), supplied under a leasing agreement with AerCap, Trend’s special correspondent reports.
Speakers at the event included Airbus Executive Vice President for the A320 Family Programme Christoph Zammert, Airbus Vice President Sales for Eastern Europe and Central Asia Charbel Youzkatli, AerCap Senior Vice President and Head of EMEA John Gowan, Airbus Program General Manager Bruno Castola, and AZAL Chief Commercial Officer Jamil Manizade.
Speaking at the event, Christoph Zammert, Executive Vice President of Airbus' A320 Family program, said that with the A321neo, AZAL's fleet is being replenished with one of the best aircraft in the industry.
"As we've ramped up production we are now delivering two to three aircraft per day, so we don't hold that many ceremonies anymore. However, for truly important events we make an exception, and today's event is one of them — the delivery of your first A321neo," he said.
Zammert noted that the aircraft ranks among the best in the industry in terms of fuel efficiency, noise levels and passenger comfort.
"I hope your customers will feel the difference in the quality of the product, and that the further expansion of your fleet will help your business achieve the results you are aiming for. This aircraft provides greater capacity, enhanced passenger comfort and allows Azerbaijan Airlines to expand its route network while also contributing to improved profitability. As the airline strengthens Azerbaijan's connections with the world and sets new travel standards in the region and beyond, you can count on our support," he said.
Charbel Youzkatli, Vice President Sales, Eastern Europe and Central Asia, Airbus, said that A321neo will allow AZAL to strengthen its position in the international market.
According to him, the handover of the first Airbus A321neo aircraft to Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL) is a historic milestone for both the carrier and the region's aviation industry.
"Today's delivery of Azerbaijan Airlines' first A321neo is a historic milestone. This is not only an important event for the airline, but also a testament to AZAL's 34-year commitment to excellence," he said.
According to Youzkatli, over the years, the airline has achieved significant success in terms of passenger service and operations.
"Over the years, Azerbaijan Airlines has demonstrated a high level of quality, constantly raising the standards of operations, hospitality, and development. The company is distinguished by inspiring leadership and an ambitious vision for the future," the Airbus representative noted.
He emphasized that the new aircraft will allow the airline to expand its capabilities and strengthen its position in the international market.
In turn, John Govan, Senior Vice President & Head of EMEA, AerCap, emphasized that AerCap is ready to support AZAL in the process of expanding its route network.
"Today we are marking a special occasion – the handover of the first A321neo aircraft to Azerbaijan Airlines. This is the first of three A321neo aircraft that AerCap will deliver to the carrier, marking a significant milestone in its fleet development," Govan explained.
He noted that AerCap is proud to be the first lessor to support AZAL at this stage of its development.
"This step reflects the airline's continued commitment to modernization and continued growth. We are very proud to be the first lessor to support Azerbaijan Airlines in realizing these plans," he emphasized.
According to Govan, the delivery is part of a broader cooperation program between AerCap and AZAL, which began in 2024.
"The program includes the delivery of three A321neo and three A320neo aircraft. The first A320neo aircraft were delivered to the airline earlier this year, and we expect to complete the remaining deliveries in the coming months," the AerCap representative noted.
He added that the new aircraft will allow the airline to expand its route network and improve the quality of its passenger service.
Bruno Castola, General Manager Airbus Programs, CFM, said that AZAL's decision to re-select Leap-1A engines shows trust in CFM technologies.
According to Castola, the Leap-1A engines, which power the new Airbus A320neo family aircraft, deliver 15 percent lower fuel consumption compared to the previous generation of engines.
"It is a great honor for me, on behalf of the President of CFM, to express my gratitude to the Azerbaijan Airlines delegation on the occasion of the delivery of this aircraft. AZAL has been operating Leap-1A engines on A320neo aircraft for almost a year now and has highly appreciated their performance," said Castola.
He noted that the airline's decision to once again select Leap-1A engines for its A321neo aircraft demonstrates its confidence in CFM technology and service.
"Azerbaijan Airlines has once again shown its trust in us by selecting Leap-1A engines for the A321neo. Thank you for your trust and loyalty. We will do everything possible to ensure our partnership remains a key factor in your success," he noted.
Castola emphasized that Leap-1A engines have been successfully operating worldwide for almost ten years.
"To date, more than 2,500 A320neo family aircraft have been delivered with Leap-1A engines. This engine is now considered a fully mature product, demonstrating high levels of reliability and performance," the CFM representative said.
He noted that the engine's reliability is comparable to the proven CFM56-5B engines, while delivering significantly higher fuel efficiency.
Jamil Manizade, Chief Commercial Officer, Azerbaijan Airlines, said that first Airbus A321neo aircraft opens a new chapter in the development history of Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL) CJSC and will become an important element of the airline's modernization strategy.
"Today we welcome the A321neo—the newest, most modern, and efficient member of our growing aviation family. This aircraft is not just another addition to our fleet, but an important step in implementing our long-term strategy," said Manizade.
He explained that the airline's strategy is focused on fleet modernization, increased operational efficiency, improved passenger comfort, and sustainable growth.
"The A321neo family is fully aligned with our vision for the future. These aircraft will allow us to operate longer-range flights, operate even more efficiently, and provide passengers with a higher level of comfort," he noted.
Manizade expressed gratitude to Airbus, leasing company AerCap, and all partners involved in the project.
As part of the program, participants were shown a video titled “A321neo: The Journey of Aircraft Creation,” which outlines the main stages of aircraft manufacturing, from the production of individual components to final assembly.
The event concluded with an official trophy presentation ceremony symbolizing the delivery of the Airbus A321neo to AZAL.
