Air Europa Signs MoU for Up to 40 Airbus A350-900 Jets to Modernize Long-Haul Fleet

Spanish carrier Air Europa has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Airbus for up to 40 A350-900 aircraft, marking a major step in the airline’s long-haul fleet renewal strategy. The agreement, announced during the Dubai Airshow 2025 on Nov. 18, underscores Air Europa’s plans to modernize its operations and expand its network to Latin America.

Air Europa operates an all-Boeing fleet of 787 and 737 jets right now. The introduction of the A350-900 will replace Air Europa’s existing long-haul fleet, enabling the airline to reduce fuel consumption and operating costs while offering passengers greater comfort and lower carbon emissions. The aircraft’s advanced aerodynamics, next-generation Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines, and lightweight composite structure deliver a 25% improvement in fuel efficiency and CO₂ emissions compared to previous-generation models.

“This order is a strategic milestone in Air Europa’s fleet development, accelerating its profitable growth through renewal of the current widebody fleet,” said Juan José Hidalgo, President of Air Europa. “The A350-900 is a game-changer for key destinations in Latin America. It provides an exceptional cabin experience and the operational performance and economics needed to expand the airline’s network without compromise.”

Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Executive Vice President of Sales at Airbus, welcomed the deal, saying: “We are proud to welcome Air Europa into the Airbus A350 family. This order is a strong endorsement of the A350 as the benchmark widebody platform for efficiency and passenger comfort in the long-haul market. We are committed to supporting Air Europa’s ambitious growth strategy as they leverage the A350’s capabilities for future operations.”

The Airbus A350 is designed to fly up to 9,700 nautical miles (18,000 km) nonstop, setting new standards for intercontinental travel. Its Airspace by Airbus cabin offers cutting-edge comfort, quieter interiors, and advanced air quality systems to enhance the passenger experience.

The A350 is also capable of operating with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) today, with Airbus targeting 100% SAF capability by 2030, further supporting global aviation’s decarbonization goals.

As of October 2025, the A350 Family had secured over 1,400 orders from 64 customers worldwide, reinforcing its position as the leading next-generation widebody aircraft for airlines seeking efficiency, sustainability, and superior passenger comfort.

As of September 2025, Air Europa operates an all-Boeing fleet centers on 11 Boeing 787-8 and 18 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners for its long-haul operations, supported by 46 Boeing 737-800, 737-9 and 737-8 Max aircraft on short- and medium-haul routes across Europe. These aircraft connect Spain to Europe and with key destinations across Latin America, North America, and Asia. The airline’s long-term modernization strategy took a significant step forward with the recent agreement to introduce the Airbus A350-900, marking a pivotal shift toward a more diversified and fuel-efficient widebody fleet.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, airbus.com