Key facts
- China Eastern Airlines plans to purchase 25 Airbus A330 neo jets.
- The total catalogue price for the order is approximately $9.4 billion.
- Aircraft deliveries are scheduled to occur between 2029 and 2033.
- The purchase agreement was signed in Shanghai.
- The acquisition is intended to enhance future transport capacity and upgrade the airline's fleet.
China Eastern Airlines intends to acquire 25 Airbus A330 neo jets, according to a filing with the Shanghai Stock Exchange. The deal, valued at a catalogue price of approximately $9.4 billion, was finalized in Shanghai. Deliveries of the new aircraft are expected to commence in 2029 and conclude in 2033.
The airline stated that the acquisition will serve to supplement its future transport capacity and to replace and upgrade its current aircraft models. This move comes as China Eastern Airlines continues to expand and modernize its fleet.
Recent reports suggest China is considering significant orders from Airbus, potentially up to 500 aircraft, as it shifts allegiances away from Boeing due to trade war impacts and manufacturing challenges. China Eastern Airlines is already a major operator of Airbus aircraft, including the A320neo family and A321XLR, with a previous order for 101 A320neo series jets valued at $15.8 billion, scheduled for delivery between 2028 and 2032.