China Eastern expands fleet with Airbus A330neo deal

China Eastern Airlines will expand its long-haul fleet with a purchase agreement for 25 Airbus A330neo jets valued at about US$9.35 billion at list prices. The Shanghai-based carrier said on June 26 the aircraft will be delivered in batches between 2029 and 2033, under an Airbus agreement signed in Shanghai earlier that day. The airline said the catalog value is based on Airbus’ January 2025 list prices, and that the actual purchase price will be lower after securing a discount more favorable than in previous orders. China Eastern plans to operate the widebodies primarily from Shanghai Pudong Airport to grow intercontinental routes and increase frequencies. The A330neo, a more fuel-efficient evolution of the A330 family, uses redesigned wings, improved aerodynamics and Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines. During the delivery period, the airline expects at least 10 older A330 aircraft to retire. Financing will come from a mix of internal funds, bank loans, bond issuances and other arrangements.