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Major Milestone for US Airways and Airbus Celebrated at PHX

Gate A3 at Phoenix Sky Harbor was abuzz with activity on the morning of December 20. And, passengers bound for Charlotte, North Carolina, on US Airways Flight 304 were surprised to find out they were the first passengers on a brand new aircraft, the 7,000th aircraft made by Airbus.

Carolers sang and passengers were treated to refreshments as the event was kicked off by US Airways Vice President of Corporate Communications John McDonald who made opening remarks about the US Airways and Airbus milestone and introduced guests from both organizations.

“We are proud to be an operator for Airbus,” said Chief Operating Officer of US Airways Robert Isom. “We value the performance and reliability this aircraft gives us and we greatly value our partnership with Airbus. It is an honor to be a recipient of the 7,000 aircraft delivery.”

Didier Lux, Executive Vice President of Customer Service for Airbus, thanked passengers who were on the inaugural flight and explained that for the aircraft itself it was much like a homecoming. After all, many of the components of the aircraft were manufactured right here in Phoenix area, he said.

“Airbus owes much of the success of the 7,000th Airbus to its American workers,” Lux said. “This is a real source of pride for the company.”

Staff from both organizations then gathered to cut the ribbon and the passenger boarding then began. Many passengers said they had no idea this event was occurring, but were happy to be able to be part of such a milestone. Passengers enjoyed gift bags once they boarded the flight and free inflight WiFi. “This is a nice, little event,” many remarked as they boarded the shiny new aircraft with that new aircraft smell.

The pilot and his crew then waved goodbye as the plane taxiied out to the runway and was met with a water arch from the Phoenix Fire Department. And, as the plane took off and the event concluded, it was a great day to celebrate for US Airways, Airbus, and all the passengers who had an opportunity to take part in this historical event.

To see more pictures from the event, visit our Facebook or Google + pages.

Published: December 20, 2011