Aircraft Orders & Deliveries
Airbus Delivers 100th A220 Aircraft from Mobile Alabama Facility
Airbus reaches 100 A220 deliveries from Mobile, Alabama, enhancing US aerospace production and expanding capacity for future growth.
Airbus has reached a notable production milestone with the delivery of the 100th A220 aircraft assembled at its Mobile, Alabama facility. This achievement not only marks a significant chapter in the A220 program but also underscores the strategic importance of the U.S.-based final assembly line (FAL) within Airbus’ global manufacturing ecosystem. The milestone, celebrated in July 2025, reflects the Mobile facility’s growing role in meeting demand for fuel-efficient, single-aisle aircraft in the North-America market.
Since its inception, the Mobile site has played a crucial role in Airbus’ broader objective to diversify production locations and strengthen ties with U.S. customers. The facility complements the original A220 assembly line in Mirabel, Quebec, and has become a central part of the company’s industrial footprint in North America. This article explores the historical development of the A220 program, the establishment and evolution of the Mobile facility, its economic impact in Alabama, and the future outlook for Airbus’ operations in the region.
The A220 aircraft was originally developed by Bombardier under the name CSeries, intended to fill a market gap for 100–150 seat aircraft with modern fuel-efficient technology. The program was launched in 2008, with the CS100 making its first flight in 2013 and entering service in 2016 with Swiss International Air Lines. The larger CS300 followed shortly thereafter, entering service with airBaltic in late 2016.
Designed with advanced aerodynamics, lightweight materials, and geared turbofan engines from Pratt & Whitney, the A220 offers significant fuel savings and lower emissions compared to older aircraft in its class. Despite these technological advantages, Bombardier faced financial strain and trade disputes, particularly after a major order from Delta Air Lines led to proposed tariffs by the U.S. government.
In 2018, Airbus acquired a majority stake in the CSeries program, rebranding it as the A220. This move allowed Airbus to integrate the aircraft into its global supply chain and customer support network. Crucially, it also enabled Airbus to establish a U.S. production line to circumvent potential import tariffs and better serve American customers.
Airbus announced in 2017 that it would build a second A220 final assembly line in Mobile, Alabama, leveraging the infrastructure of its existing A320 production site. The decision was driven by strategic considerations, including proximity to U.S. airline customers, access to a skilled workforce, and favorable state and local incentives.
Construction on the new A220 facility began in 2019, with initial assembly activities taking place in adapted A320 hangars while the dedicated A220 line was being built. The purpose-built facility officially opened in May 2020 and features five primary assembly stations. The Mobile site became operationally significant almost immediately, delivering its first A220, a -300 model for Delta Air Lines, in October 2020.
By 2025, the facility had delivered 100 aircraft, serving major U.S. carriers such as Delta, JetBlue, and Breeze Airways. The Mobile production line has become a cornerstone of Airbus’ strategy to increase its share of the North American market while enhancing resilience through geographically diversified manufacturing. Airbus partnered with local education and workforce development programs to ensure a pipeline of skilled labor. The Aviation Training Center at Mobile Aeroplex, operated by AIDT, plays a key role in preparing technicians for roles in aircraft assembly, systems integration, and quality assurance.
Flight Works Alabama, an aerospace education center adjacent to the assembly line, offers STEM programs and hands-on learning for students, further embedding Airbus into the community. These initiatives have helped Airbus meet its labor needs while contributing to broader educational and economic development goals in the region.
As of 2025, the Mobile facility employs approximately 600 workers, with plans to expand the workforce as production ramps up. Airbus has also invested in training programs in partnership with local universities and technical colleges to support long-term growth.
The Mobile facility has steadily increased its production capacity since its first delivery in 2020. Starting with a modest output of a few aircraft per year, the site has scaled up to delivering four aircraft per month by mid-2025. This growth reflects both rising demand for the A220 and Airbus’ commitment to expanding its U.S. manufacturing base.
Milestones along the way include the 50th aircraft delivery in 2023 and the 100th in July 2025. The facility’s ability to maintain production during the COVID-19 pandemic, through safety protocols and hybrid work models, demonstrated operational resilience and adaptability.
The Mobile site’s assembly process incorporates modern production techniques, including the use of automated guided vehicles (AGVs) to move aircraft between stations. This “flowline” approach has improved efficiency and reduced assembly time compared to traditional methods.
“The delivery of the 100th A220 from Mobile is a testament to the dedication of our workforce and the strength of our partnerships in Alabama,” said an Airbus representative during the July 2025 ceremony.
The Airbus facility has had a substantial economic impact on Alabama, creating hundreds of high-paying jobs and attracting a network of suppliers to the region. Initial employment of around 400 workers has grown to approximately 600, with projections for continued expansion.
In addition to direct employment, the facility has spurred the development of a local aerospace cluster. Over 30 suppliers have established operations near Mobile, contributing to a robust regional supply chain. The Alabama Department of Commerce estimates that the facility contributes more than $1 billion annually to the state’s GDP through direct and indirect economic activity. Educational institutions such as Bishop State Community College and the University of South Alabama have developed aerospace-related programs to support workforce needs. These programs have graduated hundreds of students into technical roles, reinforcing the state’s reputation as a growing hub for aerospace manufacturing.
The A220 is positioned competitively in the global market for 100–150 seat aircraft, where it faces competition from Embraer’s E195-E2 and Boeing’s 737 MAX 7. With more than 900 orders worldwide and over 400 deliveries, the A220 has carved out a significant market share.
Airbus plans to increase A220 production to 14 aircraft per month globally by 2026, with the Mobile facility contributing four of those. This expansion is supported by investments in tooling and infrastructure, including an $18.8 million upgrade to increase capacity to 50 aircraft annually by 2027.
Future developments include the potential launch of the A220-500, a stretched variant that would seat up to 160 passengers. Airbus is also exploring the use of SAF in the A220, with the goal of certifying 100% SAF usage by 2027. These initiatives align with Airbus’ broader sustainability and market expansion goals.
The delivery of the 100th A220 from Airbus’ Mobile facility represents a critical milestone in the evolution of the A220 program and the expansion of Airbus’ U.S. manufacturing presence. It highlights the success of a transatlantic industrial strategy that combines European design with American production capabilities.
Looking ahead, the Mobile facility is poised to play an even greater role in Airbus’ global operations. With plans to increase production, expand employment, and support new aircraft variants, the site is well-positioned to contribute to the future of commercial aviation. For Alabama, the growth of Airbus signals a long-term commitment to aerospace as a key sector of the state’s economy.
What is the Airbus A220? Why was the Mobile, Alabama facility established? How many A220s has the Mobile facility delivered? What airlines receive A220s from Mobile? What is the future outlook for the Mobile facility? Sources:
Airbus A220 Production Milestone: 100th Aircraft Delivered from Mobile, Alabama
Historical Development of the Airbus A220 Program
Establishment of the Mobile Assembly Facility
Workforce and Training Initiatives
Growth and Production Milestones
Economic Impact on Alabama and the U.S. Aerospace Industry
Global Context and Future Outlook
Conclusion
FAQ
The A220 is a family of narrow-body aircraft designed for 100–150 seat markets, originally developed by Bombardier as the CSeries and rebranded by Airbus in 2018.
The Mobile facility was created to serve U.S. customers more efficiently and to mitigate trade risks by assembling aircraft domestically.
As of July 2025, the Mobile site has delivered 100 A220 aircraft to U.S. customers.
Delta Air Lines, JetBlue, and Breeze Airways are the primary recipients of A220s assembled in Mobile.
Airbus plans to expand production capacity, increase employment, and potentially assemble future A220 variants at the Mobile site.
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Airbus,
FlightGlobal,
Reuters,
Bloomberg
Photo Credit: madeinalabama
Aircraft Orders & Deliveries
India to Purchase $80B Boeing Aircraft in $500B US Trade Deal
India plans to buy up to $80 billion in Boeing aircraft within a $500 billion trade pact with the US, including tariff reductions and energy diversification.
This article summarizes reporting by CNBC and Priyanka Salve, alongside official government statements and AirPro News analysis.
In a landmark development for global aviation and trade, India has announced plans to purchase up to $80 billion in Boeing aircraft as part of a broader strategic partnership with the United States. According to reporting by CNBC, India’s Minister of Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal, confirmed that New Delhi expects to sign a formal trade deal with the U.S. in March 2026.
The aviation commitment is the centerpiece of a massive $500 billion trade pact intended to span the next five years. While the headline figure for Boeing jets stands between $70 billion and $80 billion, officials indicate that the total value of the aviation sector deal, including engines, MRO services, could exceed $100 billion.
This agreement signals a profound shift in India’s geopolitical and economic strategy, trading market access and energy realignment for relief from punitive U.S. tariffs.
The scale of the reported aircraft purchase underscores India’s position as the fastest-growing aviation market in the world. According to details shared by Minister Goyal and summarized by CNBC, the deal allocates a specific $70–$80 billion tranche for Boeing airframes.
Industry observers note that this figure likely aggregates the value of deliveries from existing record-breaking orders alongside new commitments. Air India, owned by the Tata Group, placed a historic order in 2023 for 470 aircraft (split between Boeing and Airbus) and finalized an additional order for 30 Boeing 737 MAX jets in January 2026. Similarly, Akasa Air holds a substantial order book extending through 2032.
Boeing executives have previously confirmed plans to deliver approximately two aircraft per month to Indian carriers to meet surging travel demand. The inclusion of engines and aftermarket services pushes the total aviation package over the $100 billion mark, cementing the U.S. aerospace giant’s foothold in South Asia.
Contextualizing the Order Book: While the $80 billion figure is staggering, we believe it is crucial to interpret this as a “delivery value” commitment over the five-year pact rather than solely a new purchase agreement for unannounced jets. At current list prices (after standard discounts), $80 billion represents roughly 600 to 800 narrowbody jets or a significant mix of widebodies. Given Boeing’s current backlog constraints, fulfilling $80 billion in entirely new orders within five years would be logistically improbable. It is more likely that the Indian government is guaranteeing the execution and payment of the massive backlogs already held by Air India, Akasa, and potentially SpiceJet, framing these commercial milestones as diplomatic victories. Beyond aviation, the trade deal outlines a reciprocal reduction in trade barriers. The United States has agreed to slash tariffs on Indian imports from 50% to 18%, a move expected to boost Indian exporters. In exchange, India has committed to purchasing $500 billion in American goods and services over five years.
A critical component of the negotiations involves India’s energy procurement. Following the invasion of Ukraine, India became a primary consumer of discounted Russian crude. However, the new trade framework reportedly includes provisions for India to shift away from Russian energy.
U.S. President Donald Trump explicitly claimed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi agreed to stop buying Russian oil. However, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has maintained a more nuanced public stance. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasized that energy security remains the nation’s “supreme priority,” noting that India would diversify based on commercial viability. This includes potential resumption of imports from Venezuela and increased purchases from the United States.
“Energy security is the supreme priority [for India’s 1.4 billion citizens].”
— Randhir Jaiswal, MEA Spokesperson (via press briefing)
The trade deal has triggered sharp criticism within India. The opposition Congress party has characterized the agreement as a surrender of sovereignty, particularly regarding the pressure to alter energy partners and lower agricultural tariffs.
Opposition leaders Mallikarjun Kharge and Jairam Ramesh have voiced concerns that the influx of U.S. agricultural products could harm local farmers, warning of potential protests similar to those seen in 2021. Minister Goyal has defended the pact, asserting that it protects sensitive sectors like dairy and agriculture while securing essential technology and energy partnerships.
When will the deal be signed? Is the $80 billion for new planes only? What does the U.S. offer in return? Will India stop buying Russian oil?
Breakdown of the $100 Billion Aviation Commitment
Commercial Implications
AirPro News Analysis
The Broader Strategic Trade Pact
The “Russian Oil” Pivot
Domestic Opposition and Political Fallout
Frequently Asked Questions
According to Minister Piyush Goyal, the formal trade agreement is scheduled to be signed in March 2026, following a joint statement expected in early February.
The figure likely represents a mix of new commitments and the value of deliveries from existing massive orders (like Air India’s 2023 deal) scheduled for the next five years.
The U.S. has agreed to reduce tariffs on Indian goods from 50% to 18%, significantly improving market access for Indian exporters.
While the U.S. President claims an agreement is in place, Indian officials state they are diversifying energy sources based on commercial viability and security, without explicitly confirming a total ban.
Sources
Photo Credit: Daily Shipping Times
Aircraft Orders & Deliveries
CDB Aviation Delivers Three Boeing 737-8 Jets to WestJet in 2026
CDB Aviation delivers three Boeing 737-8 aircraft to WestJet, increasing leased jets to 13 and supporting fleet growth for summer 2026.
This article is based on an official press release from CDB Aviation.
On February 5, 2026, CDB Aviation announced the successful delivery of three Boeing 737-8 aircraft to WestJet. According to the official press release from the Irish subsidiary of China Development Bank Financial Leasing Co., Ltd., these deliveries mark the completion of a lease agreement originally announced in January 2024. The addition of these aircraft brings the total number of CDB Aviation-leased jets in the WestJet fleet to 13, reinforcing a strategic partnership that began in 2020.
The newly delivered aircraft are part of WestJet’s broader strategy to modernize its fleet and expand its network capacity for the 2026 summer schedule. By securing these airframes directly from CDB Aviation’s existing order book, WestJet has bypassed some of the manufacturing delays currently affecting the global aviation supply-chain. The airline continues to hold the largest narrowbody order book of any Canadian carrier.
The three Boeing 737-8s (commonly referred to as the MAX 8) were delivered on February 5, 2026. These aircraft were leased directly from CDB Aviation’s order book with Boeing, a mechanism that allows airlines to access capacity more quickly than through direct manufacturer orders in a constrained market.
According to data associated with the delivery, WestJet’s 737-8 fleet is typically configured to seat 174 passengers, split between 12 Premium seats and 162 Economy seats. The aircraft are equipped with satellite-supported Wi-Fi and in-seat power, aligning with the carrier’s focus on passenger connectivity. The 737-8 is powered by CFM LEAP-1B engines, which deliver approximately 15% greater fuel efficiency and a 40% reduction in noise footprint compared to the previous generation 737-800NG.
Both companies highlighted the strength of their ongoing relationship. Luís da Silva, Head of Commercial, Americas at CDB Aviation, emphasized the history between the two entities in a statement included in the release:
“We’ve built a strong partnership with the WestJet team since the inaugural transaction between our companies in 2020. To date, we have financed and leased a total of 13 737-8 aircraft which support this strong and growing Canadian airline.”
Jennifer Bue, Senior Vice President and Treasurer at WestJet, also commented on the significance of the delivery for the airline’s growth trajectory:
“CDB Aviation is a valued partner of WestJet. The relationship enables WestJet to continue our momentum driving our growth strategy.”
This delivery comes at a critical time for WestJet as the airline approaches a total fleet size of nearly 200 aircraft, including its subsidiaries. The additional capacity is slated to support an aggressive network expansion, including new international connections such as Toronto to Medellín, Colombia, and increased frequencies to sun destinations. The Role of Lessors in a Constrained Supply Chain
The delivery of these three aircraft highlights a vital trend in the 2026 aviation market: the increasing reliance on lessors to bridge the gap caused by OEM production delays. While manufacturers work to clear backlogs, lessors like CDB Aviation, who hold significant positions in the delivery queue, are becoming essential partners for airlines needing immediate lift. For WestJet, leasing directly from CDB’s order book allows them to circumvent the long wait times associated with direct orders, ensuring they can capitalize on the projected travel demand for the summer 2026 season. This transaction underscores that in the current climate, access to delivery slots is just as valuable as capital.
How many aircraft does CDB Aviation lease to WestJet? What is the primary benefit of the Boeing 737-8 for WestJet? When was this deal originally agreed upon?
CDB Aviation Delivers Three Boeing 737-8 Aircraft to WestJet
Transaction Details and Fleet Configuration
Aircraft Specifications
Executive Commentary
Strategic Implications for 2026
AirPro News analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
With the delivery of these three aircraft on February 5, 2026, CDB Aviation now leases a total of 13 Boeing 737-8 aircraft to WestJet.
The 737-8 offers significantly improved fuel efficiency (approximately 15% better than the 737NG) and a longer range (approx. 3,550 nm), allowing WestJet to operate routes like Western Canada to Europe or Toronto to South America more economically.
The lease agreement for these specific aircraft was originally announced on January 23, 2024.
Sources
Photo Credit: CDB Aviation
Aircraft Orders & Deliveries
De Havilland Canada Delivers Refurbished Dash 8-400 to TrueNoord
De Havilland Canada delivers an OEM refurbished Dash 8-400 to TrueNoord, leased to Nexus Airlines for regional routes in Western Australia.
This article is based on an official press release from De Havilland Canada.
On February 4, 2026, De Havilland Aircraft of Canada (DHC) announced the delivery of an OEM Refurbished Dash 8-400 to the specialist regional aircraft lessor TrueNoord. According to the company’s official statement, the aircraft is immediately being leased to Nexus Airlines, a regional carrier based in Western Australia.
This delivery underscores the growing importance of DHC’s OEM Certified Refurbishment Program. With the production of new Dash 8-400 commercial-aircraft currently paused, this program serves as a critical pipeline for operators seeking “like-new” turboprops to meet regional connectivity demands. The transaction, originally announced in September 2025, has now reached completion with the handover of the airframe.
The newly delivered aircraft will join the fleet of Nexus Airlines, a carrier launched in 2023 that serves remote and regional communities. Nexus currently holds an exclusive contract with the Western Australian Government to operate the Inter-Regional Flight Network (IRFN), connecting hubs such as Geraldton, Karratha, Port Hedland, and Broome.
In the press release, Nexus Airlines leadership emphasized that the acquisition aligns with their strategy to reinforce essential air services.
“This acquisition marks an important milestone in our fleet strategy… we are strengthening our commitment to providing reliable, community-focused air services in Western Australia.”
, Michael McConachy, Managing Director, Nexus Airlines
The Dash 8-400 is particularly well-suited for the vast distances of Western Australia, offering higher speeds and longer range compared to competitor turboprops. This capability allows Nexus to maintain efficient schedules across routes that often exceed 1,000 miles.
As the manufacturer evaluates a potential restart of the Dash 8 production line, the OEM Certified Refurbishment Program has become a primary vehicle for maintaining fleet relevance. Through this program, DHC acquires used airframes and upgrades them to current operational standards. These upgrades often include avionics modernization, cabin refurbishments, and life-extension works that can significantly prolong the airframe’s operational cycles. Ryan DeBrusk, Vice President of Sales & Marketing at De Havilland Canada, highlighted the program’s value proposition in the official release:
“Our OEM Refurbished Program delivers high-quality aircraft designed to meet the needs of growing regional operations, while providing exceptional value, performance, and reliability.”
, Ryan DeBrusk, VP Sales & Marketing, De Havilland Canada
For lessors like TrueNoord, the program offers a way to supply clients with reliable assets that carry manufacturer backing, mitigating the risks typically associated with older used inventory.
TrueNoord, a specialist lessor focused on the 50–150 seat regional aircraft market, continues to expand its portfolio of Dash 8-400s. This delivery follows their acquisition of a batch of aircraft from Nordic Aviation Capital in late 2023. By utilizing the refurbishment program, TrueNoord ensures that its assets remain competitive and reliable for operators in challenging environments like Australia and Africa.
Carst Lindeboom, Director Asia Pacific for TrueNoord, noted the confidence the lessor places in the manufacturer-led refurbishment:
“The OEM Refurbished Program ensures delivery of a Dash 8-400 that is both reliable and versatile, and we are confident it will enable our customer to deliver vital air services with confidence.”
, Carst Lindeboom, Director Asia Pacific, TrueNoord
The Bridge to Future Production
We observe that this delivery highlights a significant trend in the regional aviation sector: the “tightness” of the high-quality turboprop market. With no new Dash 8s rolling off the line since 2022 and a backlog for competitor aircraft like the ATR 72, operators are increasingly reliant on refurbishment programs to source capacity. While DHC has indicated that a decision regarding the restart of production (potentially in Alberta) could be made around the 2025/2026 timeframe, the Refurbishment Program effectively bridges the gap. It allows the OEM to maintain a commercial relationship with operators and lessors while preserving the asset value of the existing global fleet. For Nexus Airlines, securing a factory-refurbished unit provides operational certainty in a market where spare parts and reliable airframes are becoming premium commodities.
De Havilland Canada Delivers OEM Refurbished Dash 8-400 to TrueNoord for Nexus Airlines
Strengthening Regional Connectivity in Western Australia
The Role of the OEM Certified Refurbishment Program
Lessor Strategy and Market Context
AirPro News Analysis
Sources
Photo Credit: De Havilland
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