Win-win for Boeing and Airbus as China Airlines splits order between the two OEMs
December 19, 2024
In a move that can only be described as a win-win for both Airbus and Boeing, Taiwan’s China Airlines has split a nearly US$12 billion aircraft order between the two manufacturers.
Taiwan’s largest carrier said on Thursday that it would purchase 10 Boeing 777-9 aircraft and 10 Airbus A350-1000s, as well as four 777-8 freight aircraft. Deliveries of the new aircraft are due to start in 2029.
The decision to purchase from both aviation giants underscores the airline’s commitment to fleet diversity and operational flexibility, while bolstering the order books of the two aircraft manufacturers.
The newly ordered jets are intended to strengthen China Airlines’ ability to operate some of its longest routes to both Europe and North America. Leveraging continued growth in passenger demand and cargo opportunities, the aircraft will bring enhanced passenger comfort, greater fuel efficiency and cargo capacity aligning with the airline’s sustainability and profitability goals.
China Airlines has been steadily upgrading and modernising its fleet in recent years. The carrier has replaced its Airbus A340-300s and Boeing 747-400s with Airbus A350-900s and Boeing 777-300ERs. Addiitonally, it has been phasing out its Boeing 737-300s, replacing them with Airbus A321neos, while its Airbus A330-300s are also due to be retired in favour of Boeing 787-9s and 787-10s.
The inclusion of four Boeing 777-8 freighters reflects China Airlines’ strategic focus on opportunities within the air cargo market, particularly in high-yield markets such as e-commerce and pharmaceutical logistics.
For both Boeing and Airbus, the split order is a testament to the level of confidence China Airlines places in their respective aircraft and signals the airline’s ability to navigate the complex dynamics of aviation procurement.
