European aircraft manufacturer Airbus is closing 2025 with an exceptionally strong sequence of orders from China, further confirming the dominant position of the A320neo family in one of the world’s most strategically important aviation markets. Within just a few days, agreements and purchase plans have been disclosed covering more than 145 single-aisle aircraft.
Leasing company China Aircraft Leasing Group (CALC) signed a firm order for 30 A320neo-family aircraft, increasing the total number of Airbus jets ordered by the company since 2012 to 282. Of these, as many as 203 belong to the A320neo family, underlining CALC’s strong focus on the most in-demand segment of the market. The lessor said the latest order reflects robust customer demand for modern, fuel-efficient and more environmentally friendly aircraft.
Almost simultaneously, Chinese flag carrier Air China announced the purchase of 60 A320neo-family aircraft, marking one of the largest single narrowbody orders placed by a Chinese airline in 2025. According to a regulatory filing, deliveries are scheduled between 2028 and 2032. The aircraft will support fleet renewal and capacity growth, while reducing fuel consumption and emissions compared with older-generation narrowbody jets.
Private Chinese carriers further rounded out the wave of orders. Low-cost airline Spring Airlines disclosed plans to acquire 30 A320neo aircraft, with a maximum list-price value of $4.13 billion. Deliveries are planned in batches between 2028 and 2032. At the same time, Shanghai-based Juneyao Airlines announced its intention to sign an agreement with Airbus for the purchase of 25 A320-family jets, valued at approximately $4.1 billion at list prices, with deliveries expected over the same 2028–2032 timeframe. Both transactions remain subject to government approvals.
These deals come as Airbus continues intermittent negotiations aimed at securing an even larger order from China. The manufacturer recently confirmed it had received approval to proceed with the delivery of 120 previously ordered aircraft to Chinese customers, while discussions on new, potentially much larger orders are still ongoing.
The combination of orders from state-owned airlines, private carriers, and leasing companies clearly demonstrates that China remains a cornerstone of Airbus’ long-term growth strategy, particularly in the single-aisle segment, despite ongoing supply-chain constraints and a challenging geopolitical environment.
