China Airlines Orders Five More Airbus A350-1000 Aircraft

China Airlines has placed a firm order for five additional Airbus A350-1000s, bringing its total commitments for the type to 15. The new aircraft will join the carrier’s existing long-haul fleet of 15 A350-900s, further strengthening its international network.

“Expanding our A350-1000 fleet marks another important step in our long-term growth strategy. The A350’s exceptional efficiency and passenger comfort align with our goals to modernize our fleet, enhance long-haul competitiveness, and deliver an elevated travel experience,” said Kao Shing-Hwang, Chairman of China Airlines.

Airbus welcomed the expanded order. “We greatly value our long-standing partnership with China Airlines. This follow-on order is a strong vote of confidence in the A350-1000 as the right aircraft for the airline’s future ambitions,” said Benoit de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus Executive Vice President Sales for Commercial Aircraft. “Its next-generation efficiency, range and cabin comfort bring even greater value to the airline and its passengers.”

The A350 is Airbus’s most advanced widebody aircraft, capable of flying up to 9,700 nautical miles (18,000 kilometres) non-stop. It incorporates state-of-the-art aerodynamics, lightweight materials and latest-generation Rolls-Royce engines, delivering up to a 25 percent reduction in fuel burn, operating costs and CO₂ emissions compared with previous-generation competitors.

The aircraft’s Airspace cabin offers improved comfort with modern in-flight technologies, quieter interiors and flexible configuration options. Like all Airbus aircraft, the A350 can operate with up to 50 percent Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), with Airbus targeting 100 percent SAF capability by 2030.

As of the end of November 2025, the A350 Family had secured nearly 1,500 orders from 66 customers worldwide.

China Airlines Long‑Haul Fleet (2025–2026)

China Airlines (Taiwan) is in the middle of a major long‑haul fleet modernization, centered on the Airbus A350 family and the next‑generation Boeing 777X. Below is a consolidated picture based on the most recent reporting.

In Service

13 Airbus A330-300
15 Airbus A350‑900
10 Boeing 777-300ER
10 Boeing 777-200LRF
8 Boeing 747‑400F (being retired)

On Order

15 Airbus A350‑1000
5 Airbus A350‑900
18 Boeing 787‑9
6 Boeing 787‑10
15 Boeing 777‑9
8 Boeing 777‑8F (to replace 747‑400F)
2 Boeing 777-200LRF

The airline is phasing out older widebodies and expanding capacity for North America and Europe.

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