Virgin Atlantic Airways announced a $4.4 billion Airbus order last week. The 23 new A350-1000 aircraft run on Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines and are projected to generate 30 percent lower CO2 emissions. The investment is part of a fleet modernization initiative, replacing half of the airline’s fleet in six years. Virgin Atlantic will own eight of the 12 aircraft, while renting four. The airline expects the new aircraft to reduce its airport noise footprint by more than half. “The size of this order demonstrates our absolute focus on investing in the future for our customers and our people, and confirms the strength of our business. The A350-1000 plays a pivotal role in our fleet program, helping to create one of the youngest, cleanest, greenest fleets in the sky,” said Craig Kreeger, CEO, Virgin Atlantic. “We’re looking forward to introducing this aircraft to our customers, as its impressive economics, fuel performance and quiet flying offer an irresistible proposition that makes long-haul travel more enjoyable and better for the environment.” The new aircraft replaces Boeing 747-400s and Airbus A340-600s as early as 2019. At first, the aircraft will service routes between prime U.S. destinations and London (LHR). Eventually, the aircraft will extend to business and leisure routes worldwide, originating from both London Heathrow and London Gatwick. “We’re thrilled to welcome the A350 to Virgin Atlantic,” said Sir Richard Branson, president, Virgin Atlantic. “It is an outstanding aircraft from both a customer and sustainability point of view. Sustainable growth and meeting our carbon targets is incredibly important to us, and the aircraft’s environmental credentials were a genuine factor in our selection. We will be pairing its cutting edge customer proposition with our own Virgin magic to give customers the best possible experience.”