China Southern Airlines has continued to expand and revamp its long-haul fleet, placing an order for 20 Airbus A350 aircraft.
The deal, which is worth US$6.2 billion at current list prices, will see Asia’s biggest airline add another type of long-haul jet to its already extensive twin-aisle fleet.
China Southern already operates Airbus A330s and A380s, as well as Boeing 777s and 787s. In addition to the 20 new A350-900s, the Guangzhou-based carrier already has outstanding orders for 12 787-9s Dreamliners.
“With its very long range capability, economic fuel consumption and spacious cabin, the A350 is the ideal choice for our international long-haul routes,” stated Tan Wangeng, president of China Southern.
The configuration of the new A350s has not been announced, but the A350-900 commonly seats 315-325 passengers in a two-class configuration.
The order comes despite the fact that China Southern’s profits slumped 42% in the first quarter of 2017.
