‘Prius of the skies’ set for takeoff

Watch as the A320neo, dubbed the Prius of the skies takes off on its historic first flight.

THE aircraft equivalent of a Toyota Prius will soon be saturating the skies following its first successful test flight over Europe.

More than 3200 of Airbus's A320neos (new engine option) are on order worldwide with commercial passenger flights due to take off before the end of next year.

Jetstar will be the first Australian carrier to take delivery of the new aircraft in 2017.

Captain Philippe Pellerin emerges after the Airbus A320neo's maiden flight. Picture: AFP Source: AFP

The A320neo is expected to deliver to airlines the same sort of fuel efficiency that the Toyota Prius has delivered to motorists. Source: News Limited

Although not electric like the Toyota Prius, the A320neos are expected to deliver the same sort of fuel efficiency to airlines as the hybrid model car delivers to motorists.

Airbus is promising customers a reduction in fuel consumption of about 20 per cent per passenger through efficient engine technology, aerodynamic sharklet wingtips and new cabin features.

That is expected to translate to savings of more than $1 million per aircraft on an airline's annual fuel bill — often the biggest expense after employees.

A Jetstar spokesman said the airline was "always keen to invest in ways to reduce fuel burn and keep fares low".

"The introduction of the A320neo into our fleet will be great for our customers right across

the Asia Pacific," he said.

"The aircraft offers fuel savings of up to 15 per cent and an increased flying range that will

allow us to reach even more destinations."

For passengers, the A320neo should mean a bit more space — unless airlines add extra rows of seats in the reconfigured cabins — and larger overhead stowage compartments for carry-on luggage.

A crowd gathers to watch the Airbus A320neo take off for its first test flight. Picture: AFP Source: AFP

Aviation Projects managing director Keith Tonkin said the aircraft's lighter weight would also allow it to reach places previously not within the A320's range.

"Reduced fuel consumption also means reduced carbon emissions, and reduced noise during takeoff," he said.

Eight aircraft will be involved in the year-long testing program, racking up about 3000 hours of flying time.

Qatar Airways in the Middle East will be the first to fly the A320neo commercially in late 2015.

The original A320 which seats about 160 people is considered the "bread and butter" of commercial airlines with 6200 made and delivered by Airbus since 1988.

Another 4700 remain on order.

The Airbus A320neo lands after its first test flight. Picture: AFP Source: AFP

A320s cost almost $94 million each compared with $102.8 million for the neo.

After more than four years in the development process, the 180-seat A320neo will come on to the market nearly two years ahead of Boeing's new 737 MAX, which is due for delivery in 2017.

Orders for the Airbus model currently outnumber those for the 737 MAX by just over 1000.

Boeing's version costs about $105 million each and is also expected to cut fuel bills by as much as 20 per cent.

Boeing show off their all new improved Boeing 737, delivering MAX reliability, efficiency and passenger comfort. Courtesy Boeing.

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