Chinese Bank Orders 80 Airbus A320neo Jets

DALLAS — China Development Bank Financial Leasing (CDB Leasing) has decided to purchase 80 Airbus A320neo aircraft. 

The bank confirmed that deliveries will commence in 2030 and continue through 2032. Reuters reports that the acquisition aims to enhance the fleet structure of its aviation unit by increasing the proportion of fuel-efficient, next-generation aircraft with a strong market presence.

This order comes amid broader supply chain challenges the global aviation industry faces, including European manufacturer Airbus, which has struggled to meet its delivery targets.

According to a recent OAG estimate, Chinese airlines had frequencies in summer 2024 that are more than 50% higher than those in summer 2023 in seven of nine regional markets. These levels are not expected to lower any time soon.

Frequency to North America has increased 191% season over season, yet it is 81% behind Summer 2019. Based on pre-pandemic data from the Summer of 2019, there has been an increase in frequency in four regions:

• Central Asia + 120.3%
• Eastern/Central Europe +26.9%
• Western Europe +13.2%
• Middle East +59.3%