Brussels Airlines replaces leased long-haul fleet with purchased A330-300s

Brussels Airlines has begun replacing 7 leased aircraft in its Airbus A330-family long-haul fleet with second-hand A330-300s the carrier decided to acquire last year. The transaction “is the most substantial investment made in the 16-year long history of Brussels Airlines,” the carrier said. “In addition, it’s the first time ever that the airline operates its long-haul flights with aircraft that are owned by the Lufthansa Group and not leased.” The airline operates 6 A330-300s and 4 A330-200s. Of the 7 newly acquired A330ceos, 4 were operated by Cathay Pacific Airways and 3 by SIA. Two of the new aircraft began operations in June, the company said, and one of the leased A330s left the fleet Nov 13, with another set to leave in December. The refleet is scheduled to be finalized by the beginning of 2020. <br/>