The Fiji Airways announced this afternoon that it has purchased two new aircraft, the Airbus A350.

Economy and Aviation Minister, Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum says the two wide-bodied aircraft has the capacity to host over 300 passengers.

Sayed-Khaiyum adds the first Airbus A350 will arrive in November, followed by the second one in December this year.

He says with the procurement of these fleets, Fiji will have the youngest fleet in the world.

Withholding the cost of the fleet, it is understood that one Airbus A350 costs $700million.

Fiji Airways, Chief Executive Andre Viljeon says discussions to obtain these planes started two years ago.

Viljeon adds the aircraft uses 25% less fuel compared to other aircraft which reduces Fiji’s carbon footprint due to its lower fuel burn.

He adds the Airbus A350 allows Fiji Airways to extend its routes beyond those that currently exist.

The aircraft will be leased under an agreement with World Class partners, Dubai Aerospace Enterprises.