China Eastern Airlines (00670) has entered into an agreement with Airbus to purchase 101 A320neo series aircraft. The deal was signed on March 25, 2026, in Shanghai, China. Deliveries are scheduled to take place between 2028 and 2032.

The acquisition is part of the company's broader fleet strategy and reflects confidence in the future growth of China's civil aviation industry. The A320neo aircraft feature next-generation engines and Airbus' Sharklet wingtips, which are expected to enhance available seat capacity per aircraft, reduce fuel consumption, and lower unit operating costs.

This modernization effort will help maintain a competitive, advanced, and youthful fleet, improving the airline's market position. It also supports China Eastern's and the broader civil aviation sector's goals of achieving carbon peak and carbon neutrality targets.

The airline is focusing on building a hub system led by its Shanghai hub, supported by international gateways and key regional bases. The introduction of these new aircraft will strengthen the company's strategic direction of expanding into long-haul, international, and emerging markets.