Airbus set for historic A220 announcement as large AirAsia order nears

Airbus is preparing a major announcement for its A220 program at the aircraft’s assembly site in Mirabel, Quebec. The event is scheduled for Wednesday, May 6, 2026, with a press conference starting at 3:00 p.m. EDT at the New A220 Delivery Center, 13100 Henri-Fabre Blvd.

Multiple reports indicate the announcement involves AirAsia nearing a deal for around 150 A220 jets, which would be among the largest orders in the program’s history. The aircraft, seating 100 to 150 passengers, are assembled in Montreal. Sources describe the list price for over 140 such planes at about $14 billion.

AirAsia co-founder Tony Fernandes has traveled to Canada to finalize the agreement, following negotiations that have lasted over a year. Talks for more than 100 regional jets in this segment were first reported in 2025.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney is expected to attend, reflecting the program’s role in the country’s aerospace industry. Airbus has described the event as historic but has not officially named the customer.