Airbus has secured Chinese regulatory approval to deliver 120 aircraft from existing orders, according to sources familiar with the matter. The approval was reaffirmed during a visit to Beijing by French President Emmanuel Macron, highlighting the importance of the Chinese market to Airbus. However, the approval does not extend to new large orders, which remain stalled amid ongoing geopolitical tensions that have delayed major aircraft deals.
Both Airbus and Boeing continue to await progress on large orders from Chinese airlines and leasing companies, which have been affected by broader geopolitical factors. While Airbus has been actively pursuing a potential 500-jet deal since 2024, no definitive insider information suggests imminent breakthrough. The existing order book in China features at least nine customers with firm commitments for over 350 aircraft, ranging from narrowbodies to widebodies, but many of these orders are not publicly disclosed until delivery.
The recent authorization allows Airbus to continue fulfilling signed commitments based on existing agreements. Despite the delays, Airbus remains optimistic about market prospects, leveraging its established presence and focus on the delivery of aircraft already in production or awaiting delivery in China.
