Japan Airlines and All Nippon Airways, two biggest airlines in Japan are considering significant aircraft orders as part of ongoing fleet renewal and expansion plans. The orders are expected to include widebody and single-aisle aircraft as both airlines ramp up operations with easing of pandemic restrictions.
Japan Airlines (JAL) is looking to replace its Boeing 767 and 777 fleet and upgrade the remainder of its Boeing 737s. All Nippon Airways is reportedly set to order more Boeing 787s and potentially Airbus narrowbodies for its upcoming low-cost carrier.
JAL is currently undergoing an internal study of its options for a fleet overhaul which is expected to continue for another 6-12 months before the airline solidifies the order. The airline is open to all options but is considering A321neo and Boeing 787 widebody. The airline currently has 42 737-800s and 27 767s in its fleet today. The carrier also ordered 21 Boeing 737 MAXs in March, which are scheduled to begin arriving in 2026.
Last year, Japan Airlines took delivery of two A350-900s and has not received any new aircraft so far, the year from either Boeing or Airbus. The airline's first A350-1000s are expected in October and are expected to replace JAL's aging Boeing 777s.
All Nippon Airways (ANA), is reportedly planning an order of up to 50 Airbus A321neo jets during the Paris Airshow this month. The narrowbodies are likely to be part it’s the upcoming low-cost carrier Air Japan, which is expected to launch by spring 2024.
Air Japan will focus on travel in the Southeast Asian market as tourism recovers following the end of pandemic-related travel restrictions in the region.
ANA is awaiting the delivery of 55 aircraft, including 18 777-9s and 15 A320neos.