Chinese Airlines Order 95 Airbus Aircraft

Air China and subsidiary Shenzhen Airlines have signed agreements with Airbus to acquire a total of 55 aircraft, comprising 15 A350-900s for Air China and 40 A320neo family aircraft for Shenzhen Airlines.

The combined catalogue value of the order is approximately US$12.44 billion, with the final purchase price expected to be below list value following negotiated discounts. Shenzhen Airlines’ A320neo fleet will be delivered between 2029 and 2032, while Air China’s A350-900s are scheduled for delivery from 2030 to 2032.

The Air China Group said the order will support long-term fleet renewal and network expansion while improving fuel efficiency and lowering operating costs. Based on its 2025 fleet, the company estimates the A350 acquisition will increase group capacity by about 7.1%, while the Shenzhen Airlines order will contribute an additional 4.3%, with part of the deliveries replacing older aircraft. The transaction remains subject to shareholder and regulatory approvals.

Separately, Hainan Airlines has signed an agreement with Airbus to purchase 40 A320neo family aircraft as part of its fleet modernization and expansion strategy.

The transaction has a catalogue value of up to US$5.36 billion, although the airline said the final purchase price will be below the published list price following commercial negotiations. Deliveries are scheduled between 2028 and 2032 and will be funded through a combination of internal resources, bank financing, finance leases and other financing arrangements.

Hainan Airlines said the new aircraft will optimize its fleet structure, increase capacity and enhance long-term competitiveness while supporting future network growth. The agreement remains subject to shareholder approval and regulatory clearances.