Beijing, China: Three Chinese airlines have announced plans to acquire a combined 95 Airbus aircraft with a total list price of approximately US$17.8 billion, marking one of the largest commercial aircraft orders disclosed by Chinese carriers this year as they expand capacity and modernise their fleets.
The orders were announced on July 17, 2026, through separate regulatory filings submitted to the Shanghai Stock Exchange (SSE) by Air China and Hainan Airlines. Air China’s filing also covered an order by its majority-owned subsidiary, Shenzhen Airlines. No separate press release had been issued by Airbus at the time of the announcements.
Under the agreements, Air China will purchase 15 Airbus A350-900 widebody aircraft, while Shenzhen Airlines will acquire 40 Airbus A320neo family aircraft. Together, the two orders carry a combined list value of approximately US$12.44 billion, comprising US$6.09 billion for the A350-900s and US$6.35 billion for the A320neo aircraft.
Separately, Hainan Airlines announced an order for 40 Airbus A320neo family aircraft with a total list price of up to US$5.4 billion. Combined with the Air China and Shenzhen Airlines purchases, the three carriers’ commitments amount to 95 Airbus aircraft valued at roughly US$17.8 billion at catalogue prices.
According to the exchange filings, deliveries of the aircraft are scheduled to take place between 2028 and 2032, although Air China stated that the actual purchase price will be significantly lower than the published list price after customary commercial discounts offered by aircraft manufacturers.
Air China said the acquisition would strengthen its long-haul fleet while improving operational efficiency. The airline estimated that, once all aircraft are delivered, the additional capacity would increase its available passenger and cargo capacity by approximately 7.1% compared with its existing fleet.
Shenzhen Airlines said its new A320neo family aircraft would support domestic and regional network growth while improving fleet efficiency. The subsidiary expects the purchase to increase its passenger capacity by around 4.3% upon completion of deliveries.
The latest commitments continue a broader trend among Chinese carriers investing in fleet renewal despite ongoing financial pressures, including elevated fuel costs. Airbus has secured several significant orders from Chinese airlines this year, reinforcing its position in one of the world’s largest aviation markets.
