After a thorough technical evaluation, easyJet has earmarked the Airbus A320neo for its future fleet requirements.

Based on the company’s growth forecasts, the A320 was selected for offering the best productivity, lowest operating cost and best fuel efficiency of any single aisle aircraft in the 180 seat sector. Currently easyJet operates a fleet largely based on the smaller A319 seating 156 passengers.

Subject to shareholder approval, easyJet has identified a future need for 100 A320neo aircraft. These will be preceded by 35 A320ceo aircraft equipped with Sharklets. Of the 135 aircraft, 85 will be for replacement.

“The NEO is without doubt the most productive and fuel efficient aircraft around. It has the widest and tallest cabin of any single aisle aircraft for faster turnaround operations and better passenger comfort. We are delighted our reliable aircraft have met easyJet’s demanding criteria,” said John Leahy, Chief Operating Officer-Customers.

This order will sustain nearly 2,500 jobs as well as some 7,500 in the extended supply chain in the UK.

easyJet operates one of Europe’s most extensive route networks, and is the UK’s largest airline carrying 55 million passenger a year. easyJet is also the largest A320 Family customer and operator in Europe.

The A320 Family is the world’s most successful with over 9,500 ordered and over 5,600 delivered to over 380 customers and operators.