TAOYUAN CITY — China Airlines (CI) has placed a firm order for five additional Airbus A350-1000 aircraft, bringing its total commitment for the type to 15, Airbus announced on December 18, 2025. The new jets will complement the Taiwanese carrier’s existing long-haul fleet of 15 A350-900s.

The order, approved by the airline’s board in November, supports China Airlines’ long-term fleet modernization and network growth strategy. The A350-1000 will provide additional capacity and range for key long-haul markets while maintaining fleet commonality with the airline’s current A350 operations.

“Expanding our A350-1000 fleet marks another important step in our long-term growth strategy,” said China Airlines Chairman Kao Shing-Hwang, citing the aircraft’s efficiency and passenger comfort as central to the carrier’s competitiveness on long-haul routes.

What This Means for the Market

Airbus said the follow-on order underscores confidence in the A350-1000, its largest twin-engine widebody, which offers next-generation aerodynamics, advanced materials, and up to a 25% improvement in fuel burn and CO₂ emissions per seat compared with previous-generation widebodies.

China Airlines’ expanded A350-1000 commitment reflects continued demand for high-capacity, fuel-efficient long-haul aircraft that balance range, operating economics, and sustainability goals.

The A350 family is currently certified to operate with up to 50% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), with Airbus targeting 100% SAF capability by 2030. As of late November 2025, the A350 family has secured nearly 1,500 orders from more than 60 customers worldwide.