The first Airbus 320 delivered to RJ

The delivery comes in the context of the company's strategic plan set in summer of 2004 to renew Royal Jordanian's short- and medium-haul Airbus 310 and 320 aircraft with new Airbus 320 and 321 aircraft.

President and CEO Samer Majali said that five more A320s and 321s will join the fleet within the year.

He added that the new aircraft has distinguished quality technical and services specifications for seats, carpet and means of passenger entertainment and amenities. Each passenger can now enjoy watching their favorite movie with a special screen installed on every business and economy seat, over and above various services.

Majali also pointed out that the airplane was painted with the new color scheme designed for the RJ aircraft fleet, which is similar to the present color scheme. "RJ was keen on providing the optimal passenger convenience aboard this plane. This RJ aircraft seats 136 passengers; 16 on business class, and 120 on economy, whereas it has capacity for 150 seats on both classes," he added.

He said that Royal Jordanian selected V2500- powered International Engines (IAE) to be installed on its six new Airbus aircraft. "IAE are among the most advanced and powerful engines internationally. The high technical performance of the engines, their low overall cost of ownership and their lower fuel consumption will play a considerable role in the current renewal program and services the airline offers its passengers," Majali concluded.

Royal Jordanian recently announced the arrival of the first Bombardier Q400, which joined the Royal Jordanian fleet. It will operate on short-haul routes under the RJ Xpress brand. The second Q400 aircraft will join RJ in the coming few days.

The 72-passenger, 360-knot (667km/h) Q400 aircraft is among the newest and most modern turboprop aircraft. Royal Jordanian is to operate this aircraft on its regional routes which include Damascus, Aleppo, Tel Aviv, Aqaba, Sharm El Sheikh and Al Arish.