Taiwan’s China Airlines has adjusted its aircraft acquisition plans, reducing commitments for Airbus A350-900s and A321neos while firming up orders for larger A350-1000s. Initial disclosures in June outlined plans for five A350-900s and eight A321neos, valued at over $2 billion, to address surging domestic and international demand.
The airline now operates 15 A350-900s, delivered between 2016 and 2024, each seating 307 passengers in three-class configuration with an average fleet age of 8.3 years. Five A321neos are leased from Air Lease Corporation for 123-143 months at $240 million, while three others remain in commercial negotiation without finalized pricing.
Facing supply chain delays, China Airlines has extended leases on older aircraft. Boeing 787 deliveries, including 18 787-9s and six 787-10s, slipped from 2025 to 2026, with initial passenger services to Bangkok and Tokyo set for June 2026. Recently, the carrier firmed five additional A350-1000s, raising the total to 15, complementing the existing A350-900 fleet for long-haul efficiency.
These A350-1000s feature Rolls-Royce engines and lightweight materials, offering 25% better fuel burn, costs, and CO2 emissions versus prior-generation rivals. Chairman Kao Shing-Hwang noted the type’s alignment with fleet modernization. Airbus sales executive Benoit de Saint-Exupéry highlighted its range and cabin features for network needs. Broader plans include up to 18 widebodies like Boeing 777-9s, valued under $7.852 billion, subject to negotiations.