China Airlines orders ten Airbus A350-1000s

Taiwanese carrier China Airlines signed a firm order with Airbus for ten A350-1000s, finalising a commitment announced by the airline in December 2024.

The new A350-1000s will fly long-haul routes to North America and Europe, and will provide full operational commonality with the airline’s existing A350-900 fleet, ensuring seamless integration and efficiency.

Airline chair Kao Shing-Hwang said: “Our investment in the A350-1000 supports our international growth strategy and reflects our commitment to improving the travel experience for our passengers. 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.”

Airbus executive vice-president of sales for commercial aircraft Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus EVP Sales of the Commercial Aircraft business added: “We welcome China Airlines to our fast-growing family of A350-1000 operators. As an early adopter of the A350-900, China Airlines has played a pioneering role in embracing cutting-edge aviation technology. By choosing the A350-1000 Long Range Leader, the world’s most advanced long haul aircraft, China Airlines continues to elevate its fleet, bringing superior efficiency and comfort to the forefront of long-haul travel.”

China Airlines already operates various Airbus aircraft types on its full service network. 

The airline already operates a fleet of 15 A350-900s on long haul routes to Europe and the US, as well as on selected services to destinations in Asia and the Pacific. 

In addition, it operates 15 A321neo and 16 A330s on services in the region.

State of the art

The A350 is the world’s most modern and efficient widebody aircraft and has set new standards for intercontinental travel. 

It offers the longest range capability of any commercial airliner in production today. 

Powered by versions of the latest generation Rolls-Royce engines, the aircraft is capable of flying up to 9,700 nautical miles / 18,000 kilometres non-stop, using 25 percent less fuel than previous generation types and with a similar reduction in carbon emissions. 

As with all Airbus aircraft, the A350 is already able to operate with up to 50 percent Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). 

It should be noted that Airbus aims to have all its aircraft up to 100 percent SAF capable by 2030. 

The A350 Family has received more than 1,360 orders from 60 customers worldwide, with more than 640 aircraft currently in the fleets of 38 operators, flying primarily on long-haul routes.