Japan Airlines (JAL) has solidified its commitment to expanding its fleet with a firm order for 20 Airbus A350-900 widebody aircraft and 11 A321neo single-aisle jets. This significant purchase, originally announced earlier this year, was formalized at the Farnborough Air Show 2024.
The order was confirmed during a ceremonial signing attended by Yukio Nakagawa, Executive Officer and Senior Vice President Procurement at Japan Airlines, and Christian Scherer, CEO of Airbus Commercial Aircraft. The new A350-900s will bolster JAL’s international routes, complementing its existing fleet, while the A321neos are set to enhance domestic services within Japan.
To date, Japan Airlines has ordered a total of 52 A350s, with 18 already in operation. This latest contract marks JAL’s inaugural order for the Airbus A321neo, signifying a strategic move to incorporate more fuel-efficient and technologically advanced aircraft into their domestic operations.
“We are delighted to have signed the firm order for the introduction of additional A350s and new A321s. We will accelerate the introduction of these state-of-the-art, fuel-efficient aircraft to provide our passengers with excellent service and to reduce CO₂ emissions. We believe this expanded partnership with Airbus will further enhance our operational capabilities,” stated Yukio Nakagawa.
Christian Scherer of Airbus expressed his gratitude for JAL’s continued trust in Airbus products. “We thank Japan Airlines for placing its confidence once again in the A350. Additionally, we celebrate a new milestone in our partnership with the airline following its order for the A321neo. We are committed to providing our full support as JAL’s growing fleet is deployed on more routes across its network, both domestically and internationally.”
The A350-900 is celebrated as the world’s most modern and efficient widebody aircraft, leading in the 300-410 seat category. Its all-new design integrates state-of-the-art technologies and aerodynamics, ensuring exceptional efficiency and passenger comfort. As of June 2024, the A350 Family has secured over 1,300 firm orders from 60 customers globally, reinforcing its status as a top choice for widebody aircraft.
The A321neo, the largest member of the A320neo Family, offers unrivaled range and performance. With new-generation engines and Sharklets, the A321neo delivers a 50% reduction in noise and over 20% savings in fuel and CO₂ emissions compared to previous-generation single-aisle aircraft. To date, more than 6,400 A321neos have been ordered by over 90 customers worldwide.
Both aircraft are designed to support sustainable aviation, with the A350 capable of operating with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). Airbus aims to have its aircraft 100% SAF-compatible by 2030, underscoring its commitment to reducing the aviation industry’s environmental footprint.