China Plans Up to 120 Aircraft Airbus Order

China will order up to 120 additional aircraft from Airbus, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said during an official visit to Beijing aimed at strengthening economic ties between the two countries.

Speaking after meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang, Merz told reporters that the Chinese leadership would place a significant new aircraft order with Airbus. He said the deal would include up to 120 additional aircraft, describing it as a clear example of the value of high-level diplomatic engagement.

The announcement comes as global aviation demand continues to rebound and airlines expand fleets to meet long-term passenger growth forecasts. A large Chinese order would further strengthen Airbus’s position in one of the world’s fastest-growing aviation markets and reinforce European industrial ties with China.

During the bilateral meeting at the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse, Xi emphasized the importance of strategic communication between the two major economies amid growing global uncertainty. Merz responded that while challenges remain, Germany and China should focus on shared interests and cooperation.

Ahead of the trip, Merz signaled he would advocate for fair market access and a level playing field for German and European companies operating in China. He said Europe seeks a balanced, reliable and rules-based partnership with Beijing.

Beyond economic matters, the discussions also touched on geopolitical issues, including Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine. Merz stressed that China plays an essential role in global diplomacy and cannot be excluded from efforts to address major international crises.

The two-day visit underscores Germany’s efforts to maintain strong economic ties with China while navigating broader European debates over trade, supply chain resilience and strategic autonomy.

Merz is also scheduled to visit Hangzhou, a leading Chinese technology hub, including a stop at robotics firm Unitree Robotics, highlighting cooperation in advanced manufacturing and innovation.

In 2025, Airbus received a significant number of orders from Chinese airlines, including:

• Air China: 60 A320neo family jets.
• Juneyao Airlines: 25 A320neo family jets.
• China Aircraft Leasing Group (CALC): 30 A320neo family jets.
• China Airlines: 10 A350-1000 widebody jets.

These orders reflect China’s recovering aviation market and Airbus’s strong presence in the region. Deliveries for these new orders are expected to take place in 2028-2033.

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