A220-500

Airbus is preparing to assess the market potential for a new stretched version of the A220, with lessors and airlines being consulted. According to Reuters, an announcement on the launch of the Airbus A220-500 could be made this year, with an expected announcement at Farnborough International Airshow in July.

Global lessor Avolon has indicated that a new commercial aircraft program launch could be announced in 2027, with the Airbus A220-500, A350-2000 and Boeing 777-10X all in contention. The company's 'Up Next' report forecasts strong demand for aviation services and predicts an increase in airline profits.