Airbus in Japanese breakthrough

Airbus in Japanese breakthrough

Airbus has made a crucial breakthrough in the Japanese market, with Japan Airlines (JAL) signing a purchase agreement for 31 A350 XWBs (18 A350-900s and 13 A350-1000s), plus options for a further 25 aircraft.

This is JAL’s first ever order for Airbus aircraft, although prior to its takeover by JAL, Japan Air Systems was an Airbus customer. JAL and Airbus aim for entry into service from 2019, with the airline’s A350 XWBs gradually replacing its ageing fleet approximately over a six year period.

“We will utilize the A350 XWB to maximum, which offers high level of operational efficiency and product competitiveness, while positively catering to new business opportunities after slots at airports in Tokyo are increased,” said Yoshiharu Ueki, president of Japan Airlines. “In addition to improving profitability with advanced aircraft, we always aim to deliver unparalleled services to customers with the latest cabin and steady expansion of our route network.”