Taiwan flag carrier China Airlines has signed a firm order for 10 A350-1000s, Airbus said on March 31, 2025.
The order finalises a commitment made by the airline in December last year. The airline had also announced then it planned to order 10 777-9 Dreamliner aircraft.
A filing at the time said the order was to replace its aging fleet and to improve operating efficiency. The company noted it would also order four 777-8 freighter aircraft. The filing stated that the total transaction for the widebodies and freighter aircraft would be “no more than" $11.9bn. Unit prices for the A350-1000 were marked at $448 million each.
The new A350-1000s will fly long-haul routes to North America and Europe. Airbus said the new aircraft will “provide full operational commonality with the airline's existing A350-900 fleet”, allowing for efficiency and streamlined integration. As of October 31, 2024, the airline had 15 A350-900s.
“Our investment in the A350-1000 supports our international growth strategy and reflects our commitment to improving the travel experience for our passengers," said China Airlines chairman Kao Shing-Hwang. "We are confident that the A350-1000, with its superior range, fuel efficiency and comfort, will play a key role in transforming our long-haul operations.”
“As an early adopter of the A350-900, China Airlines has played a pioneering role in embracing cutting-edge aviation technology,” said Airbus EVP sales of the commercial aircraft business Benoit de Saint-Exupery.