China Airlines signs agreement for 10 A350-1000s with Airbus
Taiwan’s China Airlines has signed a firm order for 10 A350-1000 widebodies with Airbus, following a commitment announced in December 2024.
The A350-1000s will be used on routes to North America and Europe, replacing the current Boeing 777 and Airbus A330. China Airlines is already an operator of the type, but of the A350-900 variant.
“Our investment in the A350-1000 supports our international growth strategy and reflects our commitment to improving the travel experience for our passengers,” said Kao Shing-Hwang, Chairman of China Airlines.
The A350-1000 can fly up to 9,700 nautical miles (18,000 km) and seats up to 480 passengers in a single-class layout. It is powered by Rolls Royce Trent XWB-97 turbofans.
The new planes are expected to be delivered starting in 2029.
A deal with Boeing is expected to be next
China Airlines is also expected to sign a contract with Boeing soon, for 10 777-9s and four 777-8F freighters.
The aircraft were announced at the same time as the future A350-1000 order last year.
The 777X program, however, is behind schedule, with type certification expected by the end of this year or early 2026.
There are more than 480 firm orders in the backlog, Boeing says.
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