Rolls-Royce to Power AirAsia X in Order Worth up to $1.8Bn

(June 16, 2009) -- Rolls-Royce, the global power systems company, will power AirAsia X aircraft in an order worth up to US$1.8bn at list prices.

Trent XWB engines have been selected for 10 firm and five option Airbus A350 XWB aircraft ordered by AirAsia X. In addition, the airline has ordered Trent 700EP (Enhanced Performance) engines for 10 A330 aircraft already on order. All engines ordered will include TotalCare(r) long term service agreements.


The Trent XWB is the fastest-selling member of the Trent engine family and the most fuel efficient. The Trent 700EP has the best performance, lowest emissions and lowest fuel burn on the A330. Today's announcement brings the total number of Trent 700EP-powered A330s ordered by AirAsia X to 25.

The new aircraft will help Kuala Lumpur-based AirAsia X, a low-cost, long-haul operator, extend its network capability, particularly for routes into Europe.

Azran Osman Rani, Chief Executive Officer, AirAsia X, said: "Our selection of these aircraft and engine combinations is a further step in our strategy to develop and succeed with low-cost long-haul operations. The efficiency of the Trent engine technology we have chosen will support our drive to keep costs to a minimum while also minimising environmental impact."

Jim Sheard, Rolls-Royce Senior Vice President - Asia Pacific and Africa, said: "We are delighted AirAsia X has selected Trent power for its future growth plans, selecting Trent XWBs for the first time and showing continued commitment to the Trent 700, following selection of the engine for the initial order of 15 A330s two years ago."

Source : Rolls-Royce Plc (LSE: RR.L)