The new Airbus A320neo takes off for its first test flight at Toulouse-Blagnac airport. (Associated Press)
Airbus has sent its latest jet up for its first flight above the skies of southern France, amid high demand for the single-aisle A320neo and its promised fuel economy.
The planemaker has already taken more than 3,000 orders for the A320neo, a revamped version of its best-selling A320 range of jets.
The A320neo or "new engine option" incorporates an engine that uses less fuel and sharklet wing tips that help reduce fuel needs. A320s are mid-range jets that generally seat up to 180 passengers.
The plane took off and landed safely in a test flight on Thursday in Toulouse.
Airbus on Wednesday raised its long-term forecast for new airplane demand, predicting that airlines will need 31,400 new aircraft over the next 20 years, with most being single-aisle.