China

China Eastern Airlines has entered into a purchase agreement with Airbus for 20 A350-900 jets, which is a part of Airbus’ A350 XWB family.

The China-based airline currently has nearly 300 Airbus aircraft in service, including A320 family and A330 family.

Claimed to be suitable for ultra-long range operations, the wide-body A350-900 airliners have the ability to fly up to 19h.

Airbus stated that its A350 XWB family of aircraft is equipped with Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines and features new aerodynamic design, as well as carbon fibre fuselage and wings.

The new technologies installed in A350 XWB family are also said to reduce fuel burn and emissions by 25%.

"The introduction of the latest generation A350 XWB aircraft demonstrates that the partnership between China Eastern Airlines and Airbus has embarked on a new phase."

Airbus has so far recorded 803 firm orders for A350 XWB from 43 customers worldwide, and delivered 20 A350 XWBs to five global customers.

China Eastern Airlines chairman Liu Shaoyong said: "The introduction of the latest generation A350 XWB aircraft demonstrates that the partnership between China Eastern Airlines and Airbus has embarked on a new phase.

"The introduction of A350 XWB will play a very important role in promoting our operational capability, profitability and service brand on our international long-haul routes and opening a new chapter in the international development of China Eastern Airlines."

Meanwhile, the company has also placed an order for 15 787-9 Dreamliners to Boeing.

Valued at around $4bn at current list prices, the order will enable China Eastern to expand its long-haul fleet.

Image: China Eastern Airlines has nearly 300 Airbus aircraft in service. Photo: courtesy of Airbus.