China Airlines Approves Widebody Order, Retiring 747-400 Freighters

China Airlines has taken a major step in fleet modernization, announcing board approval for acquiring up to 18 new Airbus and Boeing widebody aircraft while retiring legacy cargo freighters. The comprehensive plan, valued at $7.852 billion, represents one of the carrier’s most significant fleet actions in recent years.

The approved acquisition includes five Airbus A350-1000s, five Boeing 777-9s, four Boeing 777-8 freighters, and two Boeing 777Fs. According to the filing with the Taiwan Stock Exchange, the new aircraft will support both passenger expansion on long-haul routes and modernization of the carrier’s freighter operations.

The A350-1000s will complement China Airlines’ existing A350-900 fleet, enhancing capacity on ultra-long-range international routes. The 777-9s represent a significant capacity upgrade, replacing older widebodies on high-demand routes as the aircraft enters service. The airline did not specify delivery timelines or engine selections for the newly approved aircraft.

On the cargo front, the addition of 777-8F and 777F freighters marks China Airlines’ continued transition from legacy four-engine aircraft to modern, fuel-efficient twin-engine freighters. This strategic shift aligns with industry-wide trends as operators seek to reduce operating costs amid rising maintenance and fuel expenses. The carrier will retire four Boeing 747-400 freighters, which have served as workhorses in China Airlines’ cargo operations for decades but no longer align with the airline’s operational economics.

The timing reflects broader Asia-Pacific aviation trends. Airlines throughout the region are modernizing fleets with new-generation widebodies while capacity demand recovers in both passenger and cargo markets. Boeing and Airbus have reported increasing interest from Asian carriers in both passenger and freighter variants, particularly for routes requiring enhanced fuel efficiency and operational reliability.

China Airlines’ latest announcement follows an earlier 2025 filing disclosing plans for 13 additional aircraft—five A350-900s and eight A321neos—valued at approximately $2 billion. Together, these initiatives demonstrate the carrier’s comprehensive strategy for long-term growth across both segments.

The acquisitions remain subject to final contract negotiations with Airbus and Boeing. Industry observers view China Airlines’ significant investment as a vote of confidence in sustained international aviation recovery and long-haul demand in the Asia-Pacific region.

Source ID: SRCE-2025-1764183646239-982