Chinese airlines order 95 Airbus jets with list price of $17.8 billion to expand fleet

Chinese airlines are significantly expanding and modernizing their fleets with a major order for 95 Airbus aircraft. Air China, Shenzhen Airlines, and Hainan Airlines announced the combined orders, which include A350 widebody jets and A320neo-family narrowbodies. The deals have a reported list-price value of approximately $17.8 billion.

Air China and its subsidiary Shenzhen Airlines placed the largest order, agreeing to acquire 55 aircraft valued at around $12.4 billion. Air China will receive 15 Airbus A350-900 widebody planes, while Shenzhen Airlines will take delivery of 40 A320neo-family narrowbody jets. These aircraft are crucial for expanding capacity on both domestic and international routes.

Hainan Airlines has separately committed to purchasing 40 A320neo-family aircraft, with the transaction valued at up to $5.4 billion based on list prices. Deliveries for Hainan Airlines' new narrowbody fleet are scheduled to commence between 2028 and 2032, indicating a long-term fleet strategy. The move underscores the continued growth and ambition of China's aviation sector.