China Airlines Soars High: Taiwan Carrier Orders Boeing 777X Jets in a Strategic Move

Boosting Competitiveness with New Boeing Deal and Expanding Long-Haul Routes

Taipei, Taiwan – China Airlines (CAL), a leading carrier in Taiwan, has finalized a significant agreement with Boeing to acquire at least 14 777X jets. This strategic move, announced at a signing ceremony, signifies CAL's commitment to strengthening its position under new leadership and expanding its global reach.

The contract encompasses 10 777-9 passenger jetliners and four 777-8F freighters. Additionally, the deal includes options for nine more aircraft. Brad McMullen, Boeing's senior vice president of commercial sales and marketing, highlighted the historical significance, marking CAL as the first Taiwan-based airline to order from the 777X series, a testament to a nearly 60-year partnership.

CAL anticipates receiving its initial 777X aircraft in 2030. The 777-9 jets will serve long-haul routes, connecting Taiwan with key destinations in North America and Europe, including Los Angeles and Frankfurt.

Each 777-9 will feature a seating capacity of 426, arranged across three classes: premium business, premium economy, and economy. CAL Chairman Kao Shing-hwang (高星潢) noted a higher proportion of premium business seats compared to other aircraft in the airline's fleet.

The 777-8F freighters will bolster CAL's cargo services, which proved crucial during the COVID-19 pandemic (2020-2023). They share the same cargo-hold configuration as the existing 777F, providing operational flexibility.

The signing marks one of the first major initiatives since Kao officially assumed the chairperson role in March, following the passing of Hsieh Shih-chien (謝世謙) in mid-January. This announcement also follows strong financial performance in 2024.

CAL reported record-breaking revenue of NT$203.8 billion and a net profit of NT$14.38 billion in 2024, its highest figures since its founding in 1959.

In a recent interview with Business Today, Kao noted that CAL operates fewer long-haul flights than its main competitor, EVA Air. CAL currently does not offer service between Taiwan and Washington, D.C., and operates fewer daily flights to Los Angeles compared to EVA Air.

Furthermore, CAL has placed an order for 10 passenger jets from Airbus and expects to receive its first Boeing 787s later this year, part of its plan to phase out its Airbus A330 fleet.