By Carlos Vargas

BOGOTA, (Reuters) – A top Airbus representative on Monday defended its output targets after clashing with leasing firms concerned about jetliners overproduction.

Airbus expects to nearly double the production of its A320 family, which is its most popular product. This comes as travel picks up speed following the coronavirus crises. It has been accused by critics of not paying attention to the effects on service revenue and jet prices.

Arturo Barreira from Airbus Latin America, president of Airbus Latin America said that “the key to all this” was that there are firm contracts that are in place with clients. He also stated that it is impossible to say we will not respect these contracts as they would be too costly for the company.

He told Reuters that he had made those promises to our clients and is seeing the airlines’ interest in improving their fleets being reactivated.

Sources in the industry said that Airbus rejected Monday’s calls from the leasing companies for production restraint. These firms fear overproduction will have an adverse effect on existing assets.

This dispute exacerbates an already split industry over post-COVID demands. Airbus was also criticised by engine manufacturers and suppliers for its plans to increase production.