Air New Zealand (NZ, Auckland International) has signed a purchase agreement with Airbus (AIB, Toulouse Blagnac) concerning the purchase of fourteen A320 Family aircraft. The carrier said in a statement that while the USD1.6billion order will include one A320ceo, A320neos and at least three A321neo aircraft, its exact make up would only be finalized over the next few months.

Air New Zealand intends to use the aircraft as part of its fleet renewal and simplification program. In addition to twenty-two A320s currently in service, the carrier also operates seven B737-300s on domestic flights as well as flights to Australia and throughout the South Pacific.

“With the announcement of this purchase we can confirm our intention to have an Airbus narrow body fleet. Operating one narrow body aircraft type will bring important efficiencies in training, maintenance and operating costs,” Christopher Luxon, the CEO of Air New Zealand, said.

In terms of deliveries, the A320ceo will be delivered in early 2015 with the A321neos due to begin arriving from late 2017 until 2019.