Air France’s Commitment to the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games
Air France, as an official partner of the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games, proudly introduced its latest Airbus A350-900, christened ‘Paris’. This new addition underscores the airline’s support and celebration of this significant global event. The aircraft not only boasts its name ‘Paris’ in elegant navy blue on both sides of the forward fuselage but also features the official logos of the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games prominently displayed on the front.
Delivered directly from the Airbus assembly line in Toulouse to Paris-Charles De Gaulle Airport (CDG) on July 18, 2024, this aircraft, registered as F-HUVJ, was promptly put into service, flying its inaugural route from Paris to Hong Kong International Airport under flight number AF188.
Enhanced Passenger Experience on the New ‘Paris’ Airbus
The Airbus A350-900 is thoughtfully configured to enhance passenger comfort, featuring 48 business class seats, 32 premium economy seats, and 212 economy seats. This aircraft is set to serve a variety of global destinations including New York, Santiago de Chile, Hong Kong, and Antananarivo, among others, reflecting Air France’s commitment to connecting the world with the French capital.
With the addition of the ‘Paris’ aircraft, Air France’s fleet now includes 32 Airbus A350-900s, with four more A350Fs on order. The tradition of naming aircraft after French cities was reinstated in 2019 to promote French regions globally. Other aircraft in the fleet named after cities include Toulouse (F-HTYA), Lyon (F-HTYB), Carcassonne (F-HUVG), and Nantes (F-HUVG).
Special Initiatives and Economic Implications
In alignment with its role as a key transporter for the Games, Air France plans to transport 15% of Olympic athletes and 35% of Paralympic athletes. Additionally, the airline will carry 13% of members of the ‘Olympic and Paralympic family.’ During the bustling summer of 2024, the airline anticipates flying up to 125,000 customers daily.
Despite the expected influx of visitors, Air France is projected to face a financial setback, estimating a loss of $193 million as tourists may avoid Paris during the Games. This highlights the complex economic dynamics associated with hosting such a large-scale international event.
Engaging the Public with Olympic Spirit
To further engage with the public and visitors, Air F…