Airbus has decided to lower production rate of its A330 family aircraft from the current rate of 10 to 9 aircraft per month.

The production adjustment will be effected in the fourth quarter of 2015, as it transitions towards the new re-engined A330neo variant, Airbus says.

“Our role as an aircraft manufacturer is to anticipate and adapt our output to ensure we continue to maintain a smooth production flow for Airbus and for our supply chain,” said Tom Williams, Airbus’ Executive Vice President Programmes.

Since 2013, Airbus has been building 10 A330 Family aircraft each month, the industry’s highest ever production rate for this aircraft size category.

“With the recent commercial success we’ve seen following the launch of the A330neo, in addition to the new 242 tonne weight variant and the A330 optimised for regional routes, we are confident we will sustain a steady production towards the A330neo ramp up period,” he added.

The decision stems from the A330 enhancements that will enter service in the coming years, such as the more capable 242 tonne take-off-weight A330 variant for regional and domestic routes and the A330neo.

The A330 family, which spans 250 to 300 seats, and includes Freighter, VIP, and Military Transport/Tanker variants, has received more than 1,300 orders, with over 1,100 aircraft flying with more than 100 operators worldwide.

The A330neo will boast a 14% better fuel efficiency per seat and will be powered by new generation Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 turbofan engines. From 2019 onwards, neo will replace the current A330 deliveries.