Taiwan's China Airlines has placed a firm order for five additional Airbus A350-1000 aircraft, taking its total order for the type to 15. The aircraft will join the carrier's existing fleet of 15 A350-900s.
The order finalises a deal that was approved by the airline's board earlier this month. The board had also approved the acquisition of five Boeing 777-9s, four 777-8F freighters, and two 777F freighters.
“Expanding our A350-1000 fleet marks another important step in our long-term growth strategy,” said China Airlines chairman Kao Shing-Hwang. “The A350's exceptional efficiency and passenger comfort align with our goals to modernise our fleet.”
“This follow-on order is a strong vote of confidence in the A350-1000 as the right aircraft for China Airlines' future network ambitions,” said Airbus EVP of commercial aircraft sales Benoit de Saint-Exupery.
“Its next-generation efficiency, range and cabin comfort will bring even greater value to the airline and its passengers.”
Along with approval to purchase up to 16 aircraft, the board also approved the sale of four aging 747-400F freighters.
At the time, the filing showed that it would sell two to Cargolux Airlines for around $40 million, with an estimated disposal gain of around $26 million, with the remaining two under negotiation.