China Airlines has addressed concerns regarding potential political pressures related to its upcoming widebody aircraft order. There were worries that the airline’s multi-billion dollar acquisition might be influenced by political tensions and support. However, the airline’s chairman has assured that this will not affect their decision-making process, and they are well-positioned to evaluate the aircraft options available.
This order is part of China Airlines’ ongoing fleet renewal strategy, which includes a recent purchase of the Boeing 787 Dreamliner intended to replace their Airbus A330s.
A Major New Acquisition
The airline’s planned aircraft purchase is not a new undertaking; these renewal efforts began in mid-2023. China Airlines aims to acquire widebody aircraft such as the A350 and 777X for long-haul operations, but no final decision has been made yet.
Currently, China Airlines operates over ten units of the A350-900, and with this new order, they plan to focus on replacing the older and less fuel-efficient 777-300ERs. Having experience with the A350 could make Airbus a strong contender to propose the A350-1000 to maintain fleet commonality, but China Airlines will conduct thorough evaluations.
The average age of the China Airlines 777 fleet is around nine years, indicating that while it is not obsolete, the renewal process is important for future operations. In 2023, the airline considered the A350-1000 as a top high-capacity option for long-haul flying, while also examining the Boeing 777X, a next-generation long-haul jet.
Boeing recently announced that the 777X will be delayed until 2026, which may affect China Airlines’ interest in the aircraft. Nonetheless, this aircraft order is not viewed as urgent for immediate delivery, allowing the airline the flexibility to bide its time while exploring their options for the new airliner.
Photo by Alexi Van Damme CEO and Founder AX Media Thailand
