Airbus Moves Toward Pre-Sales of Larger A220-500 Jet

Airbus is preparing to begin sales discussions for a larger version of its A220 jet, signaling renewed momentum for a long-anticipated stretch of the aircraft. Industry sources say the manufacturer could open formal talks with airlines and leasing companies within weeks, with a potential development launch later this year, subject to board approval.

The aircraft, widely referred to as the A220-500, would seat around 180 passengers and represent a “simple stretch” of the existing A220 design through fuselage lengthening. Airbus is expected to use the initial sales campaign to line up sufficient pre-orders, a key step before formally committing to the program. A launch announcement could come as early as July, potentially timed with the Farnborough Airshow.

Executives speaking privately at the Airlines Economics conference in Dublin indicated that 2026 is expected to be a pivotal year for the A220 family. While Airbus has not confirmed a timeline, company officials reiterated that all options for the A220 are under review as production ramps up and customer support efforts continue.

Airbus acquired the A220 program from Bombardier in 2018 for a nominal sum after the program struggled financially. Since then, Airbus has stabilized the aircraft’s market position, but the A220 continues to face challenges related to slow production rates, high manufacturing costs, engine durability concerns, and delivery delays that have frustrated leasing companies.

A larger A220 could help address some of these issues. By increasing seating capacity without major changes to engines or wings, Airbus aims to improve unit economics and reduce costs per seat. However, the stretch would likely come at the expense of some range compared with the current A220-300, a trade-off that could still appeal to airlines focused on high-density short- to medium-haul routes.

Analysts note that the A220-500 would move the aircraft out of the lower end of the regional jet market, where it competes with Embraer and its E2 family. That shift could improve pricing power but also raises the risk of cannibalizing sales of Airbus’s own A320neo family, its best-selling narrowbody line.

Potential customers for the stretched A220 include airlines already operating the type, such as Delta Air Lines, Air Canada, and Air France. While none have commented publicly, their existing fleets make them logical targets for early commitments.

Stretching aircraft has produced mixed results historically, but when executed well, it can deliver strong economics for airlines. As Airbus weighs the A220-500 against broader industrial pressures, the coming months are expected to clarify whether the long-discussed stretch will finally move from concept to reality.

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