OREANDA-NEWS. November 8, 2011. Transaero Airlines, Russia’s second largest airline, in the presence of Minister of transport of Russia Mr Igor Levitin signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Airbus for four A380 aircraft. The agreement was signed by Olga Pleshakova, Transaero Airlines CEO and Christopher Buckley, Airbus’ Executive Vice President Europe, Asia and the Pacific.

Transaero will become the launch customer for the A380 in Russia, the CIS and Eastern Europe. The Russian carrier plans to start operations with the A380 on its long-range network of high density routes from Moscow. The aircraft will feature a three class cabin layout, seating about 700 passengers. Transaero will announce an engine selection for the new aircraft in the near future.

"Transaero is experienced in operating long-range wide-body aircraft, and is now ready to offer the A380. I am sure that the operation of this high capacity aircraft will stimulate the development of Russia’s aviation sector, in particular airports infrastructure, while our passengers will benefit from a completely new experience on non-stop long-haul flights." said Olga Pleshakova, Transaero Airlines CEO.

“We are very pleased to welcome Transaero as the launch customer for the A380 in Russia," said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer - Customers. “We definitely see market potential for the A380 in Russia. Passenger traffic in this region is expected to increase at an average rate of 5.6 per cent per year over the next 20 years. We are convinced that the A380 is the best and most eco-efficient aircraft to meet those market requirements," added Christopher Buckley, Airbus’ Executive Vice President Europe, Asia and the Pacific.