EgyptAir Confirms Order for Six Additional Airbus A350-900 Aircraft

EgyptAir Expands Fleet with Six Additional Airbus A350-900 Aircraft

Airbus has confirmed that EgyptAir will acquire six more A350-900 widebody aircraft, further expanding the African carrier’s fleet as part of its ongoing growth and sustainability strategy. The announcement was made on the third day of the 2025 Paris Air Show, following advanced negotiations between EgyptAir and the European manufacturer. This new order builds upon the airline’s existing commitment to the A350 program, reinforcing a longstanding partnership between the two companies.

Strengthening a Strategic Partnership

EgyptAir currently operates a diverse fleet of Airbus narrowbody and widebody jets, and this latest acquisition will enhance its operational capabilities. Ahmed Adel, Chair and CEO of EgyptAir, underscored the importance of the deal, noting that the A350 will play a crucial role in supporting Egypt’s broader efforts to promote more sustainable air transport. He also highlighted the decades-long collaboration with Airbus, which has been marked by multiple successful agreements and strategic alliances.

Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus’s Executive Vice President for Sales of Commercial Aircraft, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the significance of the repeat order. He stated, “This is the second time EgyptAir has placed an order for the A350, and the decision is testament to the value the aircraft provides. The A350 is set to be a pillar in EgyptAir’s journey, and we look forward to these aircraft playing a pivotal role in the airline’s continued success, growth, and decarbonisation ambitions.”

EgyptAir initially committed to the A350-900 in November 2023, placing an order for 10 aircraft during the Dubai Air Show. That initial purchase was viewed as a strategic move to unlock new long-haul routes, including services to the western United States. The airline also made headlines as the first African carrier to select Panasonic Avionics’ Astrova In-Flight Entertainment system for its A350s, featuring advanced amenities such as fast charging at every seat and larger screens for both economy and business class passengers.

Navigating a Competitive and Challenging Market

EgyptAir’s fleet expansion occurs amid a rapidly evolving and highly competitive aerospace market. The airline faces potential challenges in integrating the new aircraft due to ongoing supply chain disruptions, a lingering consequence of the post-Covid recovery that continues to affect aircraft deliveries worldwide.

Market dynamics are also shifting as regional and global competitors make significant moves. Saudi Arabian start-up Riyadh Air recently placed a firm order for 25 A350-1000s, intensifying competition among carriers in the Middle East. Meanwhile, Boeing stands to benefit from China’s consideration of a major jet order, which could alter the competitive balance between the two aerospace giants. Additionally, leasing company AviLease’s agreement for 22 A350F cargo jets and up to 77 Airbus aircraft further underscores the fierce competition and strong demand within the sector.

Despite these challenges, EgyptAir’s renewed investment in the A350-900 highlights its commitment to modernizing its fleet and advancing sustainability objectives, positioning the airline for continued growth in a dynamic global aviation landscape.