HK Express (UO, Hong Kong International) has deferred its latest delivery of A320-200 (sl) aircraft, reports AIN Online. The low cost carrier had planned to operate a total of eight of the type by end-2017. However, due to ongoing concerns with the Pratt & Whitney PW1127G engines, it will stick to the three currently in its fleet which it leases from Norwegian's Arctic Aviation Assets.
"We were supposed to receive another two A320neos before the summer, but have declined to accept them for a limited period, until these issues have been addressed," said HK Express CEO Andrew Cowen. "It is a difficult decision but we must not leave our passengers and staff [doubting] the reliability of the aircraft."
HK Express is a unit of HNA Group and operates an all-A320 family fleet comprising twelve A320-200s, seven A321-200s and the three aforementioned A320-200neos. According to AIN Online, the deferral of the incoming A320neos will hamper HK Express's expansion plans.
Several other airlines have been disappointed with their A320neo experience, which have suffered numerous teething problems. IndiGo this week grounded yet another of its neos following high engine vibrations. The Indian budget carrier has six of its twenty-three A320neos currently out of action.
