Airbus Scores Major Win in China as Air China and Shenzhen Airlines Order 55 Aircraft

Beijing, July 18, 2026 — Airbus has secured another major order from China, with Air China and its subsidiary Shenzhen Airlines agreeing to purchase a total of 55 aircraft in a deal valued at approximately $12.4 billion at list prices.

According to regulatory filings, Air China will acquire 15 Airbus A350-900 widebody aircraft to strengthen its long-haul international network, while Shenzhen Airlines has ordered 40 Airbus A320neo Family aircraft to modernize its narrowbody fleet and support future growth. Deliveries are scheduled between 2029 and 2032.

The latest order reflects the continued demand among Chinese airlines for fuel-efficient, next-generation aircraft as passenger traffic continues to recover and both domestic and regional travel expand.

As is common with large commercial aircraft deals, industry analysts expect the final purchase price to be significantly lower than the published list value due to negotiated discounts.

Airbus Extends Lead in China

The agreement marks another significant win for Airbus in one of the world’s largest aviation markets, while adding to the challenges facing Boeing in China.

Ongoing trade tensions between the United States and China have limited Boeing’s ability to secure new aircraft orders at the same pace as its European rival, allowing Airbus to strengthen its market position.

Airbus has also benefited from its long-standing presence in China through its Tianjin Final Assembly Line, which has played an important role in building stronger relationships with Chinese airlines and supporting local aircraft production.

For Air China, the new A350-900 fleet will enhance long-haul operations with improved fuel efficiency, passenger comfort, and lower operating costs. Meanwhile, Shenzhen Airlines plans to deploy the A320neo aircraft on domestic and regional routes, replacing older-generation jets while increasing capacity.

Fleet Renewal Continues

The latest purchase forms part of a broader fleet renewal strategy among China’s major airlines, many of which are replacing aging aircraft with more efficient models to reduce fuel consumption and operating costs.

The deal further reinforces Airbus’s growing dominance in China’s commercial aviation sector and highlights the country’s continued investment in expanding and modernizing its airline fleets as travel demand continues to rise.