Airbus Hands Over First-Ever U.S.-Built Plane to JetBlue
Jackie Reddy April 27, 2016
The landmark occasion was feted by both organizations at Airbus’ U.S. Manufacturing Facility in Mobile, Alabama.
There was a festive atmosphere yesterday at the Airbus plant in Mobile, Ala. as the manufacturer handed over its first-ever U.S.-built plane to low-cost carrier JetBlue. The football-themed celebration was attended by Airbus employees and officials alike as well as representatives from JetBlue, who promptly named the new addition to their fleet, an A321, “BluesMobile.” The moniker is in keeping with JetBlue’s tradition of including the word “blue” in all of its aircraft names.
Speaking at the delivery ceremony, JetBlue CEO Robin Hayes said, “It’s been an honor to be here with Airbus throughout the process, from the announcement of the Mobile facility to its inauguration. Now, ‘BluesMobile’ is part of Airbus’ illustrious history. We want to honor the skill, dedication and craftsmanship that Airbus is recognized for around the globe.”
This landmark delivery comes barely three years after Airbus originally broke ground on its U.S. manufacturing facility in Mobile.
Addressing the gathered crowds, John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer–Customers, was quoted in USA Today as saying, “I am immensely proud to be here to participate in this first delivery from Mobile. Going from breaking ground on this facility three years ago to handing over the first Alabama-produced A321 today is an amazing accomplishment.”
Daryl Taylor, Vice President and General Manager of the Airbus U.S. Manufacturing Facility stated that, “What you see here is not just an aircraft … It’s a symbol of what can happen when a team works together to create something special. And what you see beneath those wings – the people – is Airbus at its best.”
The final assembly of the single-aisle aircraft reportedly took place last summer, with BluesMobile making its first inaugural flight in March. The jetliner joins a JetBlue fleet that features mainly Airbus craft, including 26 A321s as well as 130 A320s.
Airbus delivers its first aircraft produced in the USA to @JetBluehttps://t.co/N9LkEdTQoe#USA321JBUpic.twitter.com/99cD9eLWVu
— Airbus (@Airbus) April 25, 2016
[Photo: Airbus]
Well, I hope those employees in Alabama were trained well. Come on it's Alabama the state that is stuck in the 18th Century.