The A319neo powered by CFM International LEAP-1A engines has achieved joint type certification from the US FAA and European EASA airworthiness authorities. All three small Airbus models, the A319neo, A320neo and A321neo, are now certified by the international authorities to operate with the CFM LEAP-1A engine option.

This latest achievement follows an intensive certification flight test programme since the A319neo's first flight in March last year, with this variant having now accumulated more than 500 flight hours. The A319neo with LEAP-1A engines is the fifth airframe/engine variant of the neo family certified over the last three years. Its certification also paves the way for the ACJ319neo corporate jet variant to enter service with VIP operators during the first half of 2019.

The A319neo is the shortened-fuselage member of Airbus' A320neo product line. The ACJ319neo's ability to fly eight VIP passengers 6,750 nm or 15 hours will bring much of the world within non-stop range.

The A320neo family offers a choice of two new-generation engine options (the PurePower PW1100G from Pratt & Whitney and the LEAP-1A from CFM International), as well as the incorporation of large, fuel-saving Sharklet wingtip devices. The neo family is the world's best-selling single aisle product line with over 6,200 ordered from more than 100 customers since its launch, capturing some 60 per cent share of the market.