Airbus has announced a significant order from Air China for 60 A320neo aircraft, valued at approximately USD 9.5 billion at list price. The deal aims to modernize and expand Air China's fleet, with deliveries scheduled between 2028 and 2032. This order forms part of Airbus's broader efforts to increase its market share in China, amidst a series of recent commitments from other Chinese airlines.
Air China, which operates a fleet of 532 aircraft, plans to phase in the new A320neo jets to replace aging models and support future growth. The deal also involves a subsidiary outside the main Air China division. The company’s fleet includes aircraft from multiple manufacturers, including Airbus, Boeing, and COMAC.
In addition to Air China's order, Spring Airlines is acquiring 30 additional Airbus A320neo aircraft, scheduled for delivery over four years, from 2028 through 2032. Similarly, Juneyo Airlines, a Shanghai-based carrier, has announced plans to purchase 25 A320neo aircraft with deliveries also set for 2028-2032. These commitments are part of a broader fleet renewal effort by Chinese airlines to enhance operational efficiency and meet future demand.
Airbus’s targeted commitments reflect its strategic interest in strengthening its presence in the Chinese aviation market, despite the complexities involved in such negotiations. The simultaneous deals contribute to a busy end to 2025 for the aerospace manufacturer, with delivery slots expected to become increasingly limited in the coming months.
