China Eastern Airlines has signed a purchase agreement with Airbus for 20 A350-900 aircraft, making the airline the latest customer for the aircraft.

China Eastern Airlines operates one of the largest Airbus fleet in the world with nearly 300 Airbus aircraft in service, comprising A320 Family and A330 Family.

“The introduction of the latest generation A350 XWB aircraft demonstrates that the partnership between China Eastern Airlines and Airbus has embarked on a new phase.

“The introduction of A350 XWB will play a very important role in promoting our operational capability, profitability and service brand on our international long haul routes and opening a new chapter in the international development of China Eastern Airlines,” said Liu Shaoyong, chairman of China Eastern Airlines.

The A350 XWB is the world’s latest generation airliner and the newest member of Airbus’ modern, comfortable & efficient wide-body product family.

It features the latest aerodynamic design, carbon fibre fuselage and wings, plus new fuel-efficient Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines.

Together, these latest technologies translate into unrivalled levels of operational efficiency, with a 25 per cent reduction in fuel burn and emissions, and significantly lower maintenance costs.

For passengers the extra-wide cabin offers more personal space in all classes, including 18-inch wide seats as standard in economy class.

“We are proud to welcome China Eastern Airlines, a long time and loyal Airbus partner, to become the latest airline to select the A350 XWB,” said John Leahy, Airbus chief operating officer – customers.

“The outstanding A350’s long haul performance, fuel efficiency and passenger comfort with its extra wide cabin and wider-seats, will allow China Eastern Airlines to achieve its ambitions to develop and efficiently expand its international route network.”

With this latest order, Airbus has recorded 803 firm orders for the A350 XWB from 43 customers worldwide, making it one of the most successful wide-body aircraft ever.

So far 20 A350 XWBs have been delivered to five customers worldwide.