China Eastern to acquire 25 Airbus A330neo Jets for global expansion
The airline is replacing older planes and expanding capacity as overseas travel rebounds
ATT Desk Report 
China Eastern Airlines has announced plans to purchase 25 Airbus A330neo widebody aircraft as part of its strategy to strengthen international operations and modernise its long-haul fleet.
The airline disclosed on Friday that the agreement, signed with Airbus in Shanghai, carries a listed value of approximately $9.35 billion, although the actual purchase price will be lower after negotiated discounts.
The aircraft are scheduled for delivery between 2029 and 2033 and will primarily operate from Shanghai Pudong International Airport. According to the airline, the new jets will support the launch of additional intercontinental routes and increase flight frequencies, reinforcing Shanghai’s position as a major long-haul transit hub.
China Eastern noted that the deal is based on Airbus’s January 2025 catalogue prices, but substantial discounts were secured, consistent with industry practice for large aircraft orders. The airline also stated that the negotiated terms are more favourable than those achieved in previous purchases from the European manufacturer.
The latest acquisition follows another major agreement signed in March for 101 Airbus A320neo aircraft, reflecting the carrier’s renewed emphasis on international growth as overseas travel demand continues to recover.
The fuel-efficient A330neo, powered by Rolls-Royce engines, features enhanced aerodynamics and upgraded wings designed to improve operating efficiency. China Eastern expects at least 10 of its older A330 aircraft to retire during the delivery period, meaning many of the incoming jets will replace ageing aircraft while also expanding overall capacity.
The airline announced that purchase will be financed through a combination of internal funds, bank loans, bond issuances and other financing methods. It added that the staggered payment schedule is not expected to place pressure on its financial position or daily operations.
Separately, China Eastern revealed that one of its offshore subsidiaries plans to issue overseas bonds worth up to 2.8 billion yuan (about $412 million), although the intended use of the proceeds was not disclosed.
