On December 19, 2024, China Airlines announced a major aircraft order, marking a significant move in the airline’s long-haul fleet expansion. The Taiwanese carrier has decided to split its order between Airbus and Boeing, securing 10 A350-1000 aircraft from Airbus and 10 B777-9 jets from Boeing.
In addition to its passenger fleet, China Airlines is also enhancing its cargo operations with an order for four B777-8F freighter aircraft, underscoring the airline’s commitment to strengthening its freight capabilities.
The total value of the order is estimated at US$11.9 billion. In terms of engine selection, the airline has evenly divided the choice between Rolls-Royce, which will power the A350-1000s, and GE, which will supply engines for the B777-9s.
As of December 2024, China Airlines operates 14 Airbus A350 aircraft, all of the smaller A350-900 variant. Additionally, the airline has 10 Boeing B777-300ER passenger jets and nine B777-200F freighters in its current fleet.
China Airlines’ move comes amid growing competition in the long-haul international market, particularly from two Taipei-based carriers: Eva Air, which placed an order for 16 Airbus A350-1000 aircraft earlier in 2024, and Starlux Airlines, a startup premium carrier also operating A350-900s.
