EVA Air Finalises Major Airbus Order

EVA Air has finalised what is described as a landmark order for Airbus aircraft as it enters the next era of its operations.

The Order

As part of the order, the carrier has committed to 18 Airbus A350-1000s and 15 Airbus A321neos. In committing to these aircraft, the airline becomes the newest operator of the high-capacity A350 variant, which will power it forward.

At list price value, the deal is worth upwards of USD 10 billion; however, substantial discounts are typically handed down to customers but are not publicly disclosed.

Airbus continues to enjoy substantial success with its A321neo program into the new year. In 2023, the A321neo series was Airbus’s best-selling plane as companies worldwide flocked to utilise its capabilities.

EVA Air had been exploring a new widebody order for some time before their initial commitment to the A350-1000, which was recently finalised. The airline not only eyes fleet renewal but further growth in the market as it attempts to compete with existing customers.

Backlogs Hurting Airbus

Due to the backlogs across the Airbus production portfolio and delivery timelines being stretched, it remains unclear when the airline will be able to begin flying these jets.

While production ramp-ups are in the works, many have analysed the situation and believe that these backlogs are what’s holding Airbus back from capturing further market share and pouncing on the frustrations at Boeing.

Persistent orders for leading aircraft programs at Airbus are fantastic for the plane maker, however, equally present question marks around when deliveries can take place to these customers.

In the case of Air India, they were lucky that Aeroflot’s slots were no longer required so that they could acquire A350s earlier. However, the wait is longer for other companies, with much uncertainty over when deliveries can occur.

Comments From Executives

We have selected the Airbus aircraft following a thorough evaluation of the various models in each market segment. In both size categories we have selected the most modern and fuel efficient types, that offer the highest levels of passenger comfort. The aircraft also bring significant reductions in carbon emissions, which is in line with our company’s sustainability goals. For long-range operations the A350-1000 sets new standards in its class and will allow us to offer our passengers the best possible in-flight experience.

Clay Sun, President of EVA Air

This order marks a new phase in our relationship with EVA Air and we thank the airline for its confidence in Airbus. In the long range market, it’s another major endorsement for the A350-1000 as the natural replacement for previous generation aircraft in the larger widebody size category. The A350 is setting new standards across the board in terms of range, payload, fuel efficiency and passenger comfort, while making an immediate contribution to reduced carbon emissions.

Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus EVP Sales, Commercial Aircraft