KUALA LUMPUR (May 7) — AirAsia X Bhd has signed a firm order with Airbus Canada Ltd Partnership for 150 A220-300 aircraft, valued at approximately US$19 billion at list prices. The deal includes options for an additional 150 aircraft, according to a company statement.
The order marks a strategic shift for the long-haul low-cost carrier, which has traditionally operated Airbus A330s. The A220-300, with a range of up to 3,400 nautical miles, will allow AirAsia X to expand into medium-haul routes and improve fuel efficiency.
AirAsia X CEO Benyamin Ismail said the aircraft will support the airline's post-pandemic recovery and growth plans. Deliveries are expected to begin in 2028, though specific dates were not disclosed.
The order is subject to regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions. Airbus confirmed the agreement in a separate statement, noting it strengthens the A220 program's presence in the Asia-Pacific region.
