Key facts
- Qantas is in talks with Airbus and Boeing for a potential order of around 20 wide-body jets.
- The airline is considering additional Boeing 787s or the main variant of Airbus' A350.
- Qantas has outstanding orders for 12 Boeing 787s and 24 Airbus A350-1000s.
- The first A350-1000ULR for "Project Sunrise" flights has been delayed to April 2027.
- The talks are confidential and no final decision has been made.
Qantas is reportedly in discussions with both Airbus and Boeing regarding a potential order for approximately 20 wide-body jets. The Australian carrier is considering acquiring additional Boeing 787 Dreamliners or the standard variant of the Airbus A350. These confidential talks come amid a broader industry trend of airlines expanding wide-body fleets to address shortages, despite geopolitical uncertainties. Qantas is currently undertaking a fleet renewal program involving 200 aircraft and has existing outstanding orders for 12 Boeing 787s and 24 Airbus A350-1000s, including the "Ultra-Long Range" variant for its "Project Sunrise" flights. The airline also holds options to purchase more jets from both manufacturers, some of which may be exercised as part of this new evaluation. The first A350-1000ULR, designed for record-breaking flights, has experienced a delay of about four months to April 2027 due to supply chain challenges. This potential order follows recent news of Singapore Airlines opening discussions for at least 50 large jets.