China Airlines Expands A350-1000 Fleet to Support Long-Haul Growth Strategy
Taiwan’s China Airlines has placed a firm order for five additional Airbus A350-1000 aircraft, increasing its total commitment for the type to 15 aircraft. The latest order strengthens the airline’s long-haul fleet strategy and builds on its existing operation of 15 A350-900s, which are already deployed across the carrier’s intercontinental route network.
The A350-1000s will play a central role in China Airlines’ long-term growth and fleet modernisation plans, offering increased capacity, extended range and improved efficiency on high-demand long-haul services. By expanding its A350 family fleet, the airline is aiming to enhance competitiveness on global routes while maintaining a strong focus on passenger comfort and environmental performance.
Kao Shing-Hwang, Chairman of China Airlines, said the additional aircraft represent an important milestone in the carrier’s strategic development. He highlighted that the A350-1000’s outstanding efficiency and cabin comfort closely align with the airline’s objectives to modernise its fleet, strengthen its long-haul operations and deliver a premium travel experience to customers.
Airbus also welcomed the follow-on order as a further endorsement of the A350-1000’s capabilities. Benoit de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus Executive Vice President of Commercial Aircraft Sales, said the agreement reflects the long-standing partnership between Airbus and China Airlines. He added that the A350-1000’s combination of next-generation efficiency, range and cabin comfort makes it ideally suited to support the airline’s future network ambitions and deliver added value for passengers.
The A350 is widely regarded as the most modern widebody aircraft in service today. Designed for non-stop flights of up to 9,800 nautical miles, it has set new benchmarks for intercontinental travel through advanced aerodynamics and cutting-edge technologies. The aircraft is powered by the latest-generation Rolls-Royce engines and makes extensive use of lightweight composite materials, delivering a 25 per cent improvement in fuel burn, operating costs and CO₂ emissions compared with previous-generation widebody aircraft.
Passenger experience is a key feature of the A350, with its Airspace cabin offering wider seats, higher ceilings, improved lighting and advanced in-flight systems to enhance comfort for both passengers and crew. From a sustainability perspective, the A350 is already certified to operate with up to 50 per cent sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), with Airbus targeting 100 per cent SAF capability across its aircraft portfolio by 2030.
As of the end of November 2025, the A350 Family had secured nearly 1,500 orders from 66 customers worldwide, underlining its strong market appeal. China Airlines’ latest order further reinforces the aircraft’s position as a cornerstone of modern long-haul fleet strategies.
