Air China has closed a deal for the purchase of 15 Airbus A350-900 aircraft and another 40 from the A320neo family destined for its subsidiary Shenzhen Airlines, for a total amount close to 12.4 billion dollars (10.851 billion euros), according to the current list prices of the European manufacturer, as detailed in a statement from the company sent to the Shanghai Stock Exchange.
The planned schedule establishes that the A350-900 model aircraft will be delivered in several batches between 2030 and 2032, while the A320neo series aircraft will gradually join the fleet between 2029 and 2032.
The airline has emphasized that this operation is part of its fleet renewal plan, with the aim of retiring old aircraft, optimizing the operational efficiency of its routes, and raising the quality of service offered to passengers.
According to Air China, the incorporation of these new models will allow for a sustained reduction in unit operating costs, thus favoring the achievement of its "dual carbon" goals and supporting the transition to a more sustainable Chinese civil aviation.
In this regard, the company highlights that the A350-900 and the A320neo series aircraft are distinguished by their high energy efficiency, with fuel consumption, carbon emissions, and operating costs significantly lower than those of the previous generation.
However, the transaction will be subject to the approval of the general shareholders' meeting of Air China and to obtaining the relevant authorizations from the competent state authorities.
In the opinion of the board of directors of Air China, the conditions of the purchase are "fair" and "reasonable," considering that they favor the interests of all shareholders.