Air France has expanded its widebody fleet with the recent delivery of a new Airbus A350-900, identified by serial number 739. This latest aircraft is equipped with Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-84 engines, reinforcing the airline’s strategy of operating newer, fuel-efficient aircraft on its long-haul routes.
KLM Royal Dutch Airlines is experiencing significant delays in the delivery of its Airbus A350 aircraft, with revised schedules now reflecting a 6 to 12 month setback. The delays are attributed to persistent supply chain disruptionsimpacting aircraft production, a challenge affecting multiple operators globally.
Airbus has released its commercial aircraft delivery and order results for the first half of 2026, reporting 306 aircraft deliveries, representing a 5.56% decline compared to the 323 units delivered in the same period of 2024. Despite the drop in deliveries, the European planemaker posted strong new order activity, reflecting continued customer confidence in its aircraft lineup.
EgyptAir, the national flag carrier of Egypt, has confirmed a firm order for an additional six Airbus A350-900 aircraft as part of its ongoing long-haul fleet modernization and expansion strategy. This new commitment brings EgyptAir’s total order for the A350-900 to 16 aircraft, positioning the airline for improved operational efficiency and enhanced passenger experience on international routes.
StarLux Airlines, the Taiwan-based premium carrier, is reportedly close to placing an order for nearly 12 Airbus A350-1000 aircraft in a deal valued at approximately $4 billion. This move would represent a significant investment in the airline’s long-haul growth ambitions, further positioning it as a key player in transpacific and intercontinental markets.
Emirates, the flag carrier of the United Arab Emirates, has taken delivery of a new Airbus A350-900 widebody aircraft, identified by manufacturer serial number (MSN) 695, as part of its long-term fleet modernization and expansion strategy. The aircraft is powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-84 engines, renowned for their fuel efficiency and extended range capabilities.
Delta Air Lines, one of the leading U.S. carriers, has successfully completed a $2.0 billion public offering of unsecured notes. The move is part of the airline’s broader financial strategy to enhance liquidity and support long-term capital needs.
Airbus is reportedly in advanced negotiations with China to sell up to 500 aircraft, marking one of the largest potential orders in the aerospace sector. The discussions are expected to culminate in formal agreements as early as July 2025, coinciding with a summit between European and Chinese leaders in Beijing.
Airbus is intensifying its efforts to secure new aircraft orders as it looks ahead to the Paris Air Show scheduled for mid-June 2025. The European aerospace giant is focusing on winning commitments for its A350 widebody aircraft, targeting key Gulf carriers Riyadh Air from Saudi Arabia and Etihad from the United Arab Emirates.
SAS (Scandinavian Airlines) has entered into a multi-year agreement with Lufthansa Technik, designating its Malta-based subsidiary as the primary provider for base maintenance of SAS’s growing Airbus A350 fleet. The program will commence in 2026, supporting the airline’s long-haul operations with world-class MRO services.
