Airbus Updates No.4694

 

Philippine Airlines Orders Nine Additional Airbus A350-1000 Aircraft

FARNBOROUGH, UNITED KINGDOM — July 21, 2026 — Philippine Airlines (PAL) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Airbus for the acquisition of nine additional A350-1000 aircraft, with purchase rights for five more, reinforcing the Philippine flag carrier's commitment to long-haul growth and fleet modernization.

The agreement was announced during the Farnborough International Airshow by Lucio C. Tan III, President and Chief Operating Officer of PAL Holdings, Inc., Richard Nuttall, President of Philippine Airlines, together with Lars Wagner, CEO of the Commercial Aircraft business at Airbus and Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Executive Vice President Sales of Airbus Commercial Aircraft.

The order will increase PAL's A350-1000 fleet and position the aircraft as the airline's flagship for long-haul operations. “The A350-1000 will continue to define the future of our international operations for many years to come,” said Lucio C. Tan III. “As the first and currently the only airline in Southeast Asia to operate the Airbus A350-1000, Philippine Airlines has experienced firsthand the aircraft's exceptional range, fuel efficiency, reliability, and passenger comfort. It has expanded our reach across North America, while delivering the world-class travel experience our customers deserve.”

PAL currently operates two Airbus A350-1000 on key long-haul routes, includingnonstop flights from Manila to New York and Toronto, and seven more from the batch ordered in 2023 are expected to be delivered by 2028.

“We are proud that PAL is strongly expanding its A350-1000 flagship fleet, flying the flag of the Philippines across the world,” said Benoît de Saint-Exupéry. “This agreement marks an important milestone in deepening our partnership with Philippine Airlines. Being the long-range leader, the A350-1000 is the perfect platform for the airline to build its future long-haul network and meet continued growth, especially in competitive premium transpacific markets. We look forward to finalizing this new order soon.”

Configured in a three-class layout, PAL's A350-1000 offers a premium onboard experience featuring Business Class suites with privacy doors, a dedicated Premium Economy cabin, and an enhanced Economy Class product, complemented by the latest inflight entertainment and connectivity systems.

The aircraft also supports PAL's sustainability objectives. The A350-1000 incorporates advanced composite materials and next-generation aerodynamics, delivering significant reductions in fuel consumption and carbon emissions compared with previous-generation aircraft.

The purchase rights for five additional aircraft provide PAL with flexibility to support future fleet requirements and market opportunities.

PAL expects this second batch of Airbus A350-1000 orders to be delivered from 2034 to 2036.

Airbus Updates No.4692

 

Riyadh Air firms up order for six additional Airbus A350-1000 aircraft

Farnborough, United Kingdom, 20 July 2026 – Riyadh Air, the new premium international airline based in Saudi Arabia, has firmed up an order for six additional Airbus A350-1000 aircraft, increasing its total firm commitment for the type to 31 aircraft.

The agreement forms part of the airline's original commitment for up to 50 A350-1000s announced in 2025. Riyadh Air will become the first airline in Saudi Arabia to operate the A350-1000 and will use the aircraft to support its international growth ambitions and the Kingdom's Vision 2030 objectives.

"The firm-up of these additional aircraft reflects Riyadh Air's continued confidence in its growth trajectory and in the future of Saudi Arabia's aviation sector," said Adam Boukadida, Chief Financial Officer of Riyadh Air. "Increasing our A350-1000 commitment to 31 aircraft strengthens the foundation of our future network and supports our ambition to serve more than 100 global destinations by 2030 while delivering a premium guest experience."

"We are proud to deepen our partnership with Riyadh Air as it continues to build a pioneering carrier for the Kingdom,” said Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus EVP Sales of the Commercial Aircraft business. “This additional A350-1000 commitment reflects the airline's confidence in the aircraft's exceptional efficiency, range and passenger appeal. As Riyadh Air advances its ambitious growth plans, the A350-1000 will play an important role in supporting Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 objectives and helping position the Kingdom as a leading international aviation hub."

The A350 is the world’s most modern widebody aircraft, designed to fly up to 9,700 nautical miles / 18,000 kilometres non-stop, setting new standards for intercontinental travel. The aircraft includes state-of-the-art technologies and aerodynamics delivering unmatched standards of efficiency and comfort. Its latest generation Rolls-Royce engines and use of lightweight materials bring a 25 per cent advantage in fuel burn, operating costs and carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions, compared to previous generation competitor aircraft. The A350’s unique Airspace cabin offers passengers and crews the latest modern in-flight products for a comfortable flying experience.

At the end of June 2026, the A350 Family had won 1,595 firm orders from 68 customers worldwide, making it one of the most successful widebody aircraft ever.

Airbus Updates No.4685

 

Philippine Airlines weighs split A350, B787 order - report

Philippine Airlines (PR, Manila Ninoy Aquino International) plans to split an order for widebody aircraft between Boeing and Airbus, according to a Bloomberg report. Unnamed sources told the news agency that the carrier is preparing a firm order for about ten B787s and ten A350s.

The airline reportedly plans to announce the deal at the Farnborough International Airshow in late July 2026. The final composition of the order, however, remains subject to change as the carrier finalises the details.

Commenting on the report, Philippine Airlines' chief operating officer Carlu Fernandez told local outlet InsiderPH: "No final decision here yet. We're still in the process." The OEMs declined to comment to Bloomberg.

Philippine Airlines has not placed a direct Boeing order since 2007, when it ordered six B777-300ERs to replace its B747-400 fleet. The airline last ordered widebody aircraft in 2023, when it signed for nine A350-1000s with options for three additional aircraft.

The future Oneworld member operates a fleet of eighteen A321-200s, six A321-200Ns, two A321-200NX, eleven A330-300s, two A350-1000s, two A350-900s, and ten B777-300ERs. Regional subsidiary PAL Express (2P, Manila Ninoy Aquino International) operates nineteen A320-200s, four A321-200s, and eleven DHC-8-Q400s.

Bond offering

Separately, Philippine Airlines has priced an inaugural USD300 million five-year senior unsecured guaranteed bond carrying a 7.75% coupon, according to a company press release and a regulatory filing by parent PAL Holdings. The notes will be issued through wholly owned subsidiary Primero Agila Limited and are expected to settle on July 16, 2026.

Philippine Airlines and Air Philippines Corporation, which operates as PAL Express, will unconditionally and irrevocably guarantee the notes. They will be listed on the Singapore Exchange Securities Trading Limited.

According to the airline, the offering generated orders exceeding USD1.4 billion, representing an oversubscription of approximately 4.5 times.

PAL Holdings president Lucio C. Tan III said the transaction would allow the airline "to strengthen our network and continue to elevate the travel experience for our customers."

Airbus Updates No.4663

 

World's longest-range aircraft, the Airbus A350-1000ULR takes to the skies

Toulouse, France, 2 June 2026 - The A350-1000ULR (MSN 707), the first of 12 aircraft ordered by Qantas has completed its first flight in Toulouse, France. The aircraft, fitted with special flight test instrumentation, flew for three hours 43 minutes reaching an altitude of slightly above 41,000 feet. The aircraft was flown by a dedicated Airbus Flight Test crew.

The A350-1000ULR is being developed for Qantas Airways to enable non-stop flights between Sydney and New York and London for the first time ever - a distance of almost 10,000 nautical miles, with flight times of up to 22 hours. This is made possible primarily by the integration into the aircraft structure of an additional rear centre tank (RCT), enhancing further the aircraft performance and increasing the range of the aircraft by 1,000 nautical miles.

During the first flight the crew carried out general aircraft performance checks and tested the new fuel system architecture. This marks the start of a two month flight test campaign to certify the modifications. In addition, a new galley air cooling system will also be certified, which features lighter and more efficient refrigeration units for very long flights. The ventilation and temperature control of the cabin will also be thoroughly tested.

Following the flight test campaign, MSN 707 will be retrofitted to Qantas’ commercial specifications.

The second A350-1000ULR to be produced for Qantas and the first scheduled to be delivered to the airline in April 2027, is now at an advanced stage of final assembly and ready to roll out of the paint shop in the coming days. This will be followed by completion of the premium four class cabin layout and engine installation. 

The A350-1000ULR is the fourth passenger variant of the best-selling A350 Family, joining the A350-900, A350-900ULR and the A350-1000. Together, the aircraft have set new standards in long haul air travel, with a step-change reduction in fuel consumption and carbon emissions, and new levels of passenger comfort. 

The passenger line-up will soon be joined by the all-new A350F freighter, also currently under development at Airbus, with first flight planned later this year.

At the end of April 2026, the A350 Family had won 1,579 orders from 68 customers, with over 700 aircraft flying with 41 operators, primarily on long haul services across the globe.

Qantas has ordered 12 A350-1000ULRs under Project Sunrise, designed to overcome one of the last frontiers in non-stop travel from Australia. In addition the carrier also has 12 standard A350-1000s on order for future operation across its long haul network.

Note to editors:

The aircraft was flown by Experimental Test Pilots Thomas Wilhelm and Anthony Flynn, together with Test Flight Engineer Laurent Rossignol. In addition, Lead Flight Test Engineers Tuan Do and Alexia Plumet were onboard, as well as Ground Test Engineer Vincent Frayssinet.

Airbus Updates No.4650

1st KLM Airbus A350-900 painted

The first Airbus A350-900 for KLM has emerged from the paintshop at Toulouse-Blagnac. The aircraft, currently registered F-WZNM (809), will now be readied for its first flight. Delivery as PH-ZNA is planned to happen at the end of this summer, with two more A350s to follow before the end of the year.

KLM has orders for 22 A350-900s which will be used by the airline to replace the A330 and Boeing B777-200ER in the fleet. The first destinations announced are Dar es Salaam and Toronto.

Today, KLM's fleet is made-up of fifteen A321neos, six A330-200s, five A330-300s, seven B737-700s, 27 B737-800s, five B737-900s, fifteen B777-200ERs, sixteen B777-300ERs, thirteen B787-9s, and fifteen B787-10s.

Photo by Eurospot.

Airbus Updates No.4647

 Lufthansa Group orders new widebodies

On 11 May 2026, the Lufthansa Group's Supervisory Board approved orders for additional widebodies at both Airbus and Boeing. Both manufacturers will receive an order for ten aircraft; Airbus for ten A350-900s and Boeing for ten B787-9s.

Delivery of the additional aircraft is scheduled to take place between 2032 and 2034. Which airline in the group will receive the aircraft will be decided on a later stage.

Before this order, the Lufthansa Group held open orders with Airbus for 40 A220-300s, 24 A320neos, fifteen A321neos, 21 A350-900s, and fifteen A350-1000s. With Boeing, the airline Group has unfilled orders for 40 B737MAXs, 27 B777-9s, and 23 B787-9s.

 

Airbus Updates No.4613

 

Air Canada discloses order for eight Airbus A350-1000s

Toulouse, France, 12 February 2026 – Air Canada has disclosed a firm order for eight Airbus A350-1000 aircraft, marking a pivotal upgrade to the airline’s long-haul fleet strategy with an additional commitment to Airbus widebody aircraft. The order was listed as undisclosed in November 2025. 

The A350-1000’s economics and lower operating costs will deliver a significant competitive advantage to Air Canada. With an industry-leading range of up to 9,000nm, the latest generation widebody aircraft will be central to the airline’s global expansion, enabling seamless, non-stop connectivity from Canada to high-growth markets across the Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia, and Australia. 

“Air Canada’s continued global ambitions are solidified by the selection of the Airbus A350-1000, a natural next step in the evolution of our fleet. The aircraft brings state-of-the-art capabilities and improved efficiencies to Air Canada, unlocking new long-haul opportunities around the globe,” said Mark Galardo, Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer, and President of Cargo at Air Canada. “With the Maple Leaf adorning the tail, the Airbus A350-1000 will play a central role in defining Air Canada’s next era, connecting our customers, our hubs, and our country to the world.”

“Air Canada’s selection of the A350-1000 to lead its long-haul fleet strategy is a strong testament to the most technologically advanced widebody on the market,” said Benoit de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus EVP Sales of the Commercial Aircraft business. “This decision is not only about fleet modernisation, it is also about Air Canada’s ambition to set new standards in range, performance and customer satisfaction which we are proud to support.”

Designed for ultra-long-haul comfort, the aircraft features the Airspace cabin, representing the next evolution of Air Canada’s award-winning passenger experience. Travelers will benefit from the lowest altitude and noise levels of any aircraft cabin to support passenger wellbeing on the longest flights.

The A350 includes state-of-the-art technologies and aerodynamics delivering unmatched standards of efficiency and comfort. Its latest generation Rolls-Royce engines and use of lightweight materials bring a 25 per cent reduced fuel burn and emissions advantage, compared to previous generation competitor aircraft.

As with all Airbus aircraft, the A350 is already able to operate with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). Airbus is targeting to have its aircraft up to 100% SAF capable by 2030. At the end of January 2026, the A350 Family had won over 1,500 orders from 67 customers worldwide.

Airbus Updates No.4588

China Airlines orders more Airbus A350-1000s

On 18 December 2025, Airbus announced that China Airlines has placed a firm order for additional A350-1000s. The order is for five aircraft, taking its total ordered A350-1000s to fifteen. Deliveries of the first aircraft is expected in 2029.

The order is part of the airline's expansion plan that saw it also order ten Boeing B777-9s and four B777-8Fs in December 2024. On top of these orders, China Airlines also has direct open orders for five more A321neos and 24 B787-9s.

Today, the fleet of the airline is made-up of 20 A321neos, thirteen A330-300s, fifteen A350-900s, eight B737-800s, ten B777Fs, and ten B777-300ERs.

Illustration by Airbus.

Airbus Updates No.4569

 

Air Europa signs MoU for up to 40 Airbus A350-900

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 18 November 2025 – Spanish airline Air Europa has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Airbus for up to 40 A350-900 aircraft. The agreement forms the backbone of Air Europa’s long haul fleet replacement and was announced during  the Dubai Airshow. 

The introduction of the A350 will accelerate the renewal of Air Europa’s existing competitor long haul fleet and boost profitable growth to key markets in Latin America thanks to the aircraft’s unrivalled performance and economics. Passengers will also experience exceptional best in class comfort.

“This order is a strategic milestone in Air Europa’s fleet development, accelerating its profitable growth by renewal of the current widebody fleet,” said Juan Jose Hidalgo, President of Air Europa. “The A350-900 is a game-changer for key destinations in Latin America. It provides an exceptional cabin experience and the operational performance and economics needed to expand the airline's network without compromise, delivering the highest standards in air travel.”

“We are proud to welcome Air Europa into the Airbus A350 family. This order is a strong endorsement of the A350 as the benchmark widebody platform for efficiency and passenger comfort in the long-haul market,” said Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus EVP Sales of the Commercial Aircraft business. “We are committed to supporting Air Europa’s ambitious growth strategy as they leverage the A350’s capabilities for their future long-haul operations.” 

​The A350 is the world’s most modern widebody aircraft, designed to fly up to 9,700 nautical miles / 18,000 kilometres non-stop, setting new standards for intercontinental travel. The aircraft includes state-of-the-art technologies and aerodynamics delivering unmatched standards of efficiency and comfort. Its latest generation Rolls-Royce engines and use of lightweight materials bring a 25% advantage in fuel burn, operating costs and carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions, compared to previous generation competitor aircraft. The A350’s unique Airspace cabin offers passengers and crews the latest modern in-flight products for a comfortable flying experience.

As with all Airbus aircraft, the A350 is able to operate with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). Airbus is targeting to have its aircraft up to 100% SAF capable by 2030.

At the end of October 2025, the A350 Family had won over 1,400 orders from 64 customers worldwide.

Airbus Updates No.4512

1st Swiss Airbus A350-900 breaks cover

Swiss International Air Lines has released pictures of its first Airbus A350-900 breaking cover at Toulouse-Blagnac. As previously reported by us, the aircraft is wearing a special livery.

The A350-900, currently registered as F-WZHI (737), will be delivered later this summer and will become HB-IFA. It's the first of ten A350-900s Swiss has on order.

Airbus Updates No.4504

 

EGYPTAIR discloses order for an additional 6 Airbus A350 aircraft

Paris, France, 18 June 2025 – EGYPTAIR has disclosed a firm order for an additional six A350-900s as part of its expansion strategy to meet growing demand for air travel. The agreement takes the airline’s total order for the type to 16 A350-900. 

“We are continuously working to modernise our fleet and deliver a more comfortable and optimised travel experience. This collaboration with Airbus builds on a long-standing relationship that spans decades, marked by multiple successful deals and strategic partnerships in the aviation sector. Today’s announcement reflects our commitment to integrating the next-generation aircraft into our fleet. It will enable us to meet rising demand for long-haul travel, support our network expansion plans over the next five years, and contribute to Egypt’s broader efforts to promote more sustainable air transport.” said EGYPTAIR Chairman and CEO Captain Ahmed Adel.

“This is the second time EGYPTAIR has placed an order for the A350 and the decision is testament to the value the aircraft provides. The A350 is set to be a pillar in EGYPTAIR’s journey, and we look forward to these aircraft playing a pivotal role in the airline’s continued success, growth and decarbonisation ambition," said Benoît de Saint-Exupéry,  Airbus EVP Sales of the Commercial Aircraft business. 

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

The A350-900s are equipped with a comfortable and spacious Airspace cabin, wide seats, high ceilings and alluring ambient lighting. 

As with all Airbus aircraft, the A350 aircraft is already able to operate with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). Airbus is targeting to have its aircraft up to 100% SAF capable by 2030.

At the end of May 2025, the A350 had won over 1,390 orders from 60 customers worldwide.

Airbus Updates No.4462

 

Qantas delays A350-1000 first delivery until late 2026

Qantas (QF, Sydney Kingsford Smith) expects to add its first A350-1000 in late 2026 and deferred the launch of its Project Sunrise ultra-long-haul flights until early 2027, as Airbus continues to delay deliveries of the modified widebody.

Speaking to reporters in Toulouse, Qantas chief executive Vanessa Hudson said the first of 24 modified A350-1000s would be delivered at the end of 2026, yet another delay in the project. Moreover, to operate daily ultra-long-haul flights from Sydney to New York JFK and Sydney to London Heathrow, the carrier needs three -1000s in its fleet, and this is not expected to take place until the spring of 2027 at least.

"Then, as the other aircraft come on, we'll be able to fill out the network," Hudson said without specifying other routes.

The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) required Airbus to modify its fuel tanks, which delayed the variant's certification until June 2024 and Qantas's Project Sunrise overall.

The Australian carrier has orders for twenty-four A220-300s, forty-three A320-200Ns, seven A321-200NX, seventeen A321-200NX(LR)s, forty A321-200NY(XLR)s (with the first deliveries of the type expected in 2025), and twenty-four A350-1000s from Airbus. It also expects to add eight B787-10s and four B787-9s from Boeing. The new aircraft are set to be distributed between Qantas and its subsidiaries Jetstar Airways and Cobham Aviation Services Australia - Airline Services.

Airbus Updates No.4452

 

EVA Air confirms six A350-1000s, adds three A321neo

EVA Air (BR, Taipei Taoyuan) has converted options for six A350-1000s held as a part of its 2024 order for 18 units of the type, and added three new A321-200neo to its order directly from Airbus.

The Taiwanese carrier said in a stock market filing that the agreed purchase price was up to USD436 million for each A350 and up to USD150 million for each A321neo. The total value of the deal is up to USD3.1 billion.

EVA Air currently expects the deliveries of the A350s to commence in the first quarter of 2027, with a slight delay compared to the original plan. The newly confirmed options are for deliveries in 2031 and later. Its current widebody fleet comprises nine A330-300s, thirty-three B777-300ERs, five B787-9s, and twelve B787-10s. Besides the A350s, it also has unfilled orders for eight more B787-9s and five -10s.

In turn, the A321neo are not due to enter into service before 2029. The three new orders increase the total commitment for the type to 18 aircraft and will extend the deliveries through 2032. They will replace the current narrowbody fleet comprising seventeen A321-200s.

The new orders follow the second year in a row of stellar profits. For 2024, the Taiwanese airline posted a net profit of NTD30.4 billion Taiwanese new dollars (USD922 million) on a consolidated basis, up 38% over the already record-high 2023 result.

Airbus Updates No.4450

Special livery for 1st Swiss Airbus A350-900

Swiss has announced that it's first Airbus A350-900 will feature a special livery. According to the airline's press-release, the livery is called "SWISS Wanderlust" and high lights the airline's close ties with its home country and cities.

The first A350-900 is currently in final assembly at Toulouse-Blagnac and is currently registered F-WZHI (737). It will be registered as HB-IFA and is expected to enter commercial service in the upcoming summer.

In total, Swiss has orders for ten A350-900s, which will all be delivered by 2031.

Illustration by Swiss.

Airbus Updates No.4427

Korean Air welcomes 1st Airbus A350-900s

On 27 and 30 December 2024, Korean Air took delivery of its first Airbus A350s. Both aircraft are A350-900s and registered HL8597 (681) and HL8598 (689). They were ferried from Toulouse-Blagnac to Busan.

The duo has been delivered all white and it's expected that these will be the first aircraft to receive the airline's new corporate identity which it plans to launch after completing its acquisition of Asiana Airlines.

In March of this year, Korean Air announced it has ordered six A350-900s, and 27 A350-1000s. Freshly bough Asiana Airlines had open orders for fifteen A350-900s.

Photo by Eurospot.

Airbus Updates No.4412

 

Aircalin orders two A350-900s

Aircalin (SB, Nouméa La Tontouta) has disclosed a new order for two A350-900s directly from Airbus. The airline said that the new widebodies will reinforce its capacity on the recently launched Nouméa La Tontouta-Bangkok Suvarnabhumi-Paris CDG route and allow for other network expansions.

The A350s "will open the doors to very long-haul flights and enable Aircalin to pursue its development strategy,” CEO Georges Selefen said.

The airline did not disclose the expected delivery timeline other than saying that the aircraft will join its fleet "in the coming years". Aircalin did not respond to ch-aviation's request for comment.

The airline's widebody fleet currently comprises two A330-900s. Chief Commercial Officer William Le Grand told ch-aviation recently that one of the pair will undergo C-Check in 2025, which will force Aircalin to seek third-party capacity to cover for the downtime. Besides the Bangkok-Paris route, the A330s also connect Nouméa with Auckland International, Brisbane International, Nadi, Papeete, Singapore Changi, and Sydney Kingsford Smith.

The airline also operates two A320-200Ns.

Airbus Updates No.4389

 

Ethiopian Airlines takes delivery of first A350-1000

Ethiopian Airlines (ET, Addis Ababa International) has taken delivery of its first A350-1000, one of four ordered by the airline, and the first of the type to be operated by an African carrier. ET-BAW (msn 691) was handed over to the airline on November 4 at Toulouse Blagnac, the airline said. It was ferried to Addis Ababa International the following day, Flightradar24 ADS-B data shows.

ET-BAW is equipped with Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 engines - the only option for the A350 family - and is configured with 46 business class seats and 349 economy. A second -1000 is due to be delivered in December, followed by the remaining two by late first quarter 2025.

The first unit will be used on promotional flights to eight destinations until the second aircraft arrives, after which both will be dedicated to serving its Washington Dulles route, Ethiopian Aviation Holding Group CEO Mesfin Tasew said at the handover ceremony. The A350-1000 will enable the airline "to enhance its premium service on key destinations" including Washington D.C., London Heathrow, Paris CDG, and Frankfurt International, Airbus said. Tasew added that the larger aircraft would be particularly useful on the slot-constrained Heathrow route.

Ethiopian Airlines' widebody fleet comprises twenty A350-900s (with another 11 still to be delivered), six B777-200LRs, four B777-300ERs, nineteen B787-8s, ten B787-9s, and ten B777-200Fs (with another two to be delivered). Along with the additional A350-900s, eleven B787-9s and eight B777-9s are still to be delivered.

Airbus Updates No.4246

 

 

Korean Air selects Airbus A350

More happy Airbus A350-news on 21 March 2024 as Korean Air announced it has selected the aircraft as a replacement for older widebodies in the fleet. In total, the airline is set to order six A350-900s and 27 A350-1000s. No delivery timeline has been communicated by the airline or manufacturer.

The A350 will be a new addition to the fleet, although Korean Air is currently in the process of merging with Asiana, which already operates fifteen A350-900s and has fifteen more on order.

Korean Air's-fleet currently consists of ten A220-300s, nine A321neos, five A330-200s, 20 A330-300s, ten A380s, one B737-700BBJ, two B737-800s, nine B737-900s, six B737-900ERs, five B737-8s, four B747-400Fs, nine B747-8s, seven B747-8Fs, eight B777-200ERs, four B777-300s, 25 B777-300ERs, twelve B777Fs, one B787-8BBJ, and thirteen B787-9s.

Next to its new A350-order, the airline has open orders with Airbus for 41 A321neos and with Boeing for 23 B737-8s, seven B787-9s, and ten B787-10s.

Airbus Updates No.4211

 

 United starts discussions with Airbus for more Airbus

A321neos

Reuters is reporting that United Airlines has started discussions with Airbus about a potential order for more A321neos. The airline is doing this as it's very unhappy with the grounding of the MAX9 and all the production, delivery and certification delays of the MAX.

Earlier in January, the CEO of United Airlines called the partial grounding of the MAX9 "the straw that broke the camels back" after also facing uncertainties due to the delay in certification of the MAX10. As a result of all this, the airline has removed the MAX10 from all its internal fleet planning until further notice, leaving the airline scrambling to secure additional capacity to support its growth plans. United has a total of 277 MAX10s on order, which it had planned to incorporate into the fleet from 2024 until 2032.

According to the news agency, Airbus is willing to work with United and is talking with other A321neo-customers to see if they're willing to reshuffle orders in order to free up short term production slots. It also reports that Airbus wants to include a firm delivery timeline for the 45 A350-900s the airline has on order into a potential deal.

United Airlines originally ordered 25 A350-900s in 2010. In 2013, it changed the order into 35 A350-1000s, and four years later it converted it into 45 A350-900s. During all the changes, the airline also deferred deliveries, which are now pushbacked as far as 2030. At the same time, Airbus saw United ordering more B787s, lastly in October 2023 when it ordered 50 more B787-9s. However, things appear to be moving within United as the airline's CFO also said in January 2024, that the airline was looking to take delivery of its first A350 as of 2030 to replace older B777s.

United has placed large orders over the last years in order to renew and expand its fleet. With Airbus it has open orders for 176 A321neos, 45 A350-900s. At Boeing, the airline has open orders for 354 MAXs (all versions) and 150 B787-9s.

Airbus Updates No.4200

 

Delta orders 20 Airbus A350-1000's plus options on 20 more

On 12 January 2024, Delta announced it has selected the Airbus A350-1000 to expand its widebody-fleet with. The order was already rumoured since before the Paris Air Show in 2023 but has now been made official.

In total, Delta Air Lines has ordered 20 A350-1000s which will be delivered between 2026 and 2028. The deal also includes options for 20 more aircraft.

With this latest order, the airline now has open orders for 36 A350s, whilst currently operating 28 A350-900s.