China Eastern orders 101 Airbus aircraft in $15.8 billion deal

International

The A320neo series jets will be delivered in stages between 2028 and 2032

China has announced a major aircraft procurement agreement with Airbus worth approximately $15.8 billion. According to reports from Chinese state media, the order was placed by China Eastern Airlines and includes 101 aircraft from the A320neo family.

The deal marks one of the largest recent aircraft orders by a Chinese carrier and reflects the continued expansion of the country’s aviation sector as demand for domestic and regional travel grows.

Deliveries scheduled between 2028 and 2032

Under the agreement, Airbus will supply the aircraft to China Eastern Airlines in several batches between 2028 and 2032. The airline confirmed that the total value of the order amounts to around $15.8 billion.

The A320neo family is one of Airbus’ most widely used narrow-body aircraft series and is designed for short- and medium-haul routes. The aircraft are known for improved fuel efficiency and lower operating costs compared with earlier models.

Strategic investment in fleet expansion

The order is expected to support China Eastern Airlines’ long-term fleet modernisation and capacity expansion plans. With air travel demand in China continuing to grow, airlines are investing in newer aircraft that offer greater efficiency and lower emissions.

According to the Beijing-based newspaper Global Times, the purchase forms part of the airline’s broader strategy to strengthen its operational capabilities and adapt to the evolving needs of the aviation market.