Taiwan’s China Airlines Orders 24 New Airbus A350 and Boeing 777 Widebody Jets

China Airlines has made a significant move to modernize and expand its fleet by placing a substantial order with both Airbus and Boeing. The Taiwanese carrier announced that it will acquire a total of 24 new-generation widebody aircraft, comprising ten Airbus A350-1000s, ten Boeing 777-9s, and four Boeing 777-8 Freighters. Deliveries for these aircraft are scheduled to begin in 2029, although the airline has not specified exact timelines for each model, reported ch-aviation.com.

In a filing with the Taiwan Stock Exchange, China Airlines revealed that the entire transaction is valued at up to USD11.9 billion. Breaking down the costs, each Boeing 777-9 is priced at up to USD530 million, each Airbus A350-1000 at up to USD448 million, and each Boeing 777-8 Freighter at up to USD519 million. This investment marks one of the largest fleet expansions in the airline’s history.

The new Airbus A350-1000s will be powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 engines, renowned for their fuel efficiency and performance. Meanwhile, the Boeing 777-9s and 777-8 Freighters will utilize General Electric GE9X engines, the latest in GE’s line of high-thrust jet engines. Both passenger aircraft models will feature three-class cabin configurations, enhancing the airline’s service offerings across economy, business, and premium classes. However, China Airlines has not disclosed the exact seating capacities for these new planes.

While the airline did not confirm whether these new widebody jets will replace existing aircraft, industry analysts speculate that they may succeed the current Boeing 777-300ERs in the fleet. Presently, China Airlines operates a widebody passenger fleet that includes sixteen Airbus A330-300s, fifteen Airbus A350-900s, and ten Boeing 777-300ERs. The introduction of the A350-1000s and 777-9s is expected to bolster the airline’s long-haul capabilities and improve operational efficiency.

Adding to its existing commitments, China Airlines also has a firm order for eighteen Boeing 787-9s and six Boeing 787-10s. This diversified acquisition strategy highlights the airline’s ambition to modernize its fleet with advanced aircraft from both major manufacturers, aiming to offer enhanced comfort and connectivity to passengers.

In addition to the aircraft orders, China Airlines has secured backup engines to support its expanding fleet. The carrier purchased four GE9X-105B1A engines and three Rolls-Royce XWB-97 engines directly from the manufacturers. These acquisitions ensure that the airline can maintain optimal operational readiness and minimize downtime due to maintenance.

Regarding the freighter segment, the four Boeing 777-8 Freighters will supplement China Airlines’ existing cargo operations rather than replace any aircraft. Currently, the airline operates nine Boeing 777-200 Freighters and has one more on order from Boeing. Its cargo fleet also includes eight Boeing 747-400FSCDs, although there is a gradual phase-out of these older quad-jet models in favor of more efficient twin-engine aircraft like the 777 series.

This strategic investment aligns with China Airlines’ long-term growth plans, positioning the carrier to meet increasing passenger and cargo demand in the Asia-Pacific region and beyond. By integrating state-of-the-art aircraft into its fleet, the airline aims to enhance fuel efficiency, reduce operational costs, and provide a superior travel experience.

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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com