Airbus May Have Secured Long-Standing Bid for LOT Order Over Embraer

Airbus Nears Victory in LOT Polish Airlines Aircraft Order

Airbus is reportedly on the verge of securing a significant contract from LOT Polish Airlines, potentially surpassing Embraer in a highly competitive contest for aircraft seating up to 150 passengers. According to sources cited by Reuters, the state-owned carrier is favoring the Airbus A220 to modernize its regional fleet, with plans that could involve ordering as many as 80 jets in the 100- to 150-seat range.

A Prolonged Evaluation and Strategic Shift

The decision follows an extensive evaluation process that has been underway since at least 2021, during which both Airbus and Embraer have actively competed for the contract. LOT currently operates a substantial fleet of Embraer aircraft, including 44 first-generation E-Jets and three recently leased E195-E2s, making it one of Embraer’s most experienced customers. Embraer has also pledged to invest in Poland if awarded the new order, highlighting the high stakes involved in this competition.

Choosing the A220 would represent a strategic pivot for LOT, as the airline does not presently operate any Airbus aircraft. This transition would necessitate considerable investment in crew training, ground support, and infrastructure. Such a move would signal LOT’s management’s intent to diversify its fleet and align with evolving industry trends.

Airbus’s Growing Momentum and Market Dynamics

Airbus has intensified its efforts to capture LOT’s business and expand sales of the A220, a model lauded for its fuel efficiency but whose order book has plateaued at around 900 units. The upcoming Paris Air Show is anticipated to be a critical event, with Airbus expected to announce several new A220 deals. Airlines such as AirAsia and Royal Air Maroc are also reportedly considering the aircraft, reflecting a rising interest in the type.

This potential order coincides with a surge in global demand for Airbus’s mid-sized jets. Vietjet recently doubled its commitments to the A330neo, and China is reportedly contemplating a massive purchase of hundreds of Airbus aircraft, developments that could significantly alter the competitive landscape in the aviation industry.

Embraer’s Response and Global Expansion

Embraer continues to pursue global growth, having recently established a subsidiary in India to strengthen its foothold in the rapidly expanding Asian market. Despite its longstanding relationship with LOT and a strong product portfolio, losing this order would represent a setback for Embraer as it strives to maintain its competitive position against Airbus on the global stage.

If confirmed, LOT’s decision would underscore Airbus’s increasing momentum in the mid-sized jet segment and highlight the intensifying competition among leading aircraft manufacturers worldwide.