It has also converted an existing order for 18 A320neos to larger A321neos.

The A321s will be delivered between October 2024 and September 2027, and the A320s between October 2026 and September 2029.

EasyJet said the order formed part of its plans to renew and up-gauge its fleet, bringing cost and sustainability benefits with neos offering "at least 20%" greater fuel efficiency.

The order was rubber-stamped at a general meeting of easyJet on Wednesday morning (20 July), where shareholders voted overwhelmingly – 99.95% – in favour of the acquisition.

Kenton Jarvis, easyJet chief financial officer, said: "We believe this order will support positive returns for the business and the delivery of our strategic objectives.

"The new aircraft are aligned with easyJet’s sustainability strategy, with the adoption of the more efficient new technology aircraft being a core component of easyJet’s path to net zero emissions.

"Alongside this, the new aircraft are significantly quieter, with half the noise footprint of the older aircraft they are replacing."

Christian Scherer, Airbus International chief commercial officer, added: "Wwe are delighted this latest agreement for 56 A320neo Family aircraft not only future proofs its growth as traffic rebounds, but also lays the foundations for its sustainability journey."

EasyJet currently operates an all Airbus single-aisle fleet, comprising the A319, A320ceo, A320neo and A321neo.