(February 4, 2010) -- Hong Kong Airlines has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Airbus for six A330-200 aircraft. The latest commitment will increase the number of A330s ordered by the airline to 23. Hong Kong Airlines intends to use the A330-200s to develop new services to destinations across the Asia-Pacific region, as well as to the Middle East and Europe.

"The A330-200 offers the perfect range and size capability to enable us to expand into new medium and long haul markets," said Yang Jian Hong, President, Hong Kong Airlines. "With these aircraft in our fleet we are aiming to create new standards in comfort and service and to establish our company as a premium brand in new international markets."

"This latest commitment from Hong Kong Airlines underscores once again the popularity of the A330 as the right aircraft right now for quality airlines across the world," said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers. "The A330 remains the most efficient aircraft in its size category flying today, providing airlines with the ability to maximise profit potential on a wide range of operations."