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.
Made in Alabama,
Airbus,
FlightGlobal,
Reuters,
Bloomberg
Photo Credit: madeinalabama
Aircraft Orders & Deliveries
Aergo Capital Acquires Boeing 737 MAX 8 from Aircastle Leased to WestJet
Aergo Capital acquires a Boeing 737 MAX 8 from Aircastle currently leased to WestJet, highlighting active secondary market demand and expanding Aergo’s aviation portfolio.
This article is based on an official press release from Aergo Capital.
Dublin-based aircraft leasing and asset management platform Aergo Capital has announced the acquisition of one Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft from Aircastle. The transaction, announced on December 16, 2025, involves an aircraft bearing Manufacturer Serial Number (MSN) 60513, which is currently on lease to Canadian carrier WestJet.
This acquisition marks a continuation of Aergo Capital’s strategy to invest in modern, fuel-efficient narrowbody aircraft. According to the company’s official statement, the deal underscores the active secondary market for the 737 MAX and strengthens the trading relationship between the two major lessors. The aircraft remains in operation with WestJet, ensuring continuity for the airline while transferring asset ownership to Aergo.
The deal highlights the growing collaboration between Aergo Capital and WestJet, following significant transactions earlier in the operational year. By acquiring this asset, Aergo expands its portfolio of liquid, in-demand aviation assets while Aircastle executes its strategy of active portfolio management.
The specific asset involved in the transaction is a Boeing 737 MAX 8, identified by MSN 60513. Fleet data indicates this aircraft operates under the registration C-GRAX. Originally delivered during the initial rollout phase of the MAX program, the aircraft is approximately eight years old and represents the current generation of Boeing’s narrowbody technology.
Fred Browne, Chief Executive Officer of Aergo Capital, emphasized the importance of the acquisition in strengthening ties with both the seller and the lessee. In a statement regarding the deal, Browne noted:
“We are pleased to complete the acquisition of this Boeing 737 MAX 8 from Aircastle… I also extend my thanks to WestJet for their continued partnership and support.”
On the seller’s side, Aircastle, a Stamford-based lessor owned by Marubeni Corporation and Mizuho Leasing, viewed the sale as a testament to their strong commercial network. Michael Inglese, CEO of Aircastle, commented on the relationship between the firms:
“We value the long-standing trading relationship we have built with Aergo… The acquisition underscores the strong commercial relationship between Aergo and Aircastle.”
This transaction is not an isolated event but rather part of a deepening relationship between Aergo Capital and WestJet. In August 2024, Aergo completed a significant sale-and-leaseback transaction involving eight Boeing 737-800 aircraft with the Canadian airline. That deal marked the first major collaboration between the two entities. The addition of this 737 MAX 8 further cements Aergo’s position as a key partner in WestJet’s fleet financing structure. For Aircastle, the sale aligns with a strategy of capital recycling and portfolio optimization. Trading assets with leases attached is a common practice in the aircraft leasing industry, allowing lessors to manage age profiles and risk exposure. For WestJet, the transaction represents a “backend” change of lessor; the airline retains physical possession and operational control of the aircraft, merely redirecting lease payments to the new owner, Aergo Capital.
The Secondary Market for the MAX 8
The transfer of a Boeing 737 MAX 8 between two major lessors highlights the intense demand for this asset class in the secondary market. With new aircraft production facing documented delays across the industry, “on-lease” assets, aircraft that are already built, certified, and generating revenue, have become premium commodities.
While an eight-year-old airframe might typically be considered approaching mid-life, the 737 MAX 8 remains a current-generation asset offering approximately 14% better fuel efficiency than its predecessors. For lessors like Aergo Capital, acquiring such an asset avoids the long wait times associated with factory order books. For the industry at large, this trade signals that liquidity for the MAX platform remains robust, despite, or perhaps because of, supply chain constraints limiting the delivery of new metal.
Sources:
Aergo Capital Acquires WestJet-Leased Boeing 737 MAX 8 from Aircastle
Transaction Overview and Executive Commentary
Strategic Context and WestJet Partnership
Deepening Ties with WestJet
Asset Liquidity and Market Demand
AirPro News Analysis
Photo Credit: Aergo Capital
Aircraft Orders & Deliveries
Qanot Sharq Receives First Airbus A321XLR in Central Asia
Qanot Sharq becomes Central Asia’s first operator of the Airbus A321XLR, expanding long-haul routes to North America and Asia from Tashkent.
This article is based on an official press release from Airbus and Qanot Sharq.
On December 19, 2025, Qanot Sharq, Uzbekistan’s first private airline, officially took delivery of its first Airbus A321XLR (Extra Long Range) aircraft. The delivery, facilitated through a lease agreement with Air Lease Corporation (ALC), marks a historic milestone for aviation in the region, as Qanot Sharq becomes the launch operator of the A321XLR in Central Asia and the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS).
This aircraft is the first of four confirmed A321XLR units destined for the carrier. According to the official announcement, the airline intends to utilize the aircraft’s extended range to open new long-haul markets that were previously inaccessible to single-aisle jets, including planned services to North America and East Asia.
The newly delivered A321XLR is powered by CFM International LEAP-1A engines and features a two-class layout designed to balance capacity with passenger comfort on longer sectors. The aircraft accommodates a total of 190 passengers.
In addition to the seating configuration, the aircraft is fitted with Airbus’ “Airspace” cabin interior. Key features include customizable LED lighting, lower cabin altitude settings to reduce jet lag, and XL overhead bins that provide 60% more storage capacity compared to previous generation aircraft.
Nosir Abdugafarov, the owner of Qanot Sharq, emphasized the strategic importance of the delivery in a statement regarding the fleet expansion.
“The A321XLR’s exceptional range and efficiency will allow us to offer greater comfort and convenience while maintaining highly competitive operating economics.”
, Nosir Abdugafarov, Owner of Qanot Sharq
The introduction of the A321XLR allows Qanot Sharq to deploy a narrowbody aircraft on routes typically reserved for widebody jets. With a range of up to 4,700 nautical miles (8,700 km), the airline plans to connect Tashkent with destinations in Europe, Asia, and North America.
According to the airline’s strategic roadmap, the new fleet will support route expansion to Sanya (China) and Busan (South Korea). Furthermore, the airline has explicitly outlined plans to serve New York (JFK) via Budapest. While the A321XLR has impressive range, the distance between Tashkent and New York (approximately 5,500 nm) necessitates a technical stop. Budapest will serve as this intermediate point, potentially allowing the airline to tap into passenger demand between Central Europe and the United States, subject to regulatory approvals. AJ Abedin, Senior Vice President of Marketing at Air Lease Corporation, noted the geographical advantages available to the airline.
“Qanot Sharq is uniquely positioned to unlock the full potential of the A321XLR due to its strategic location in Uzbekistan, bridging Europe and Asia.”
, AJ Abedin, SVP Marketing, Air Lease Corporation
The delivery of the A321XLR signals a distinct shift in the competitive landscape of Uzbek aviation. Until now, long-haul flights from Tashkent,specifically to the United States,have been the exclusive domain of the state-owned flag carrier, Uzbekistan Airways, which utilizes Boeing 787 Dreamliners for non-stop service.
By adopting the A321XLR, Qanot Sharq appears to be pursuing a “long-haul low-cost” hybrid model. The A321XLR burns approximately 30% less fuel per seat than previous-generation aircraft, allowing the private carrier to operate long routes with significantly lower trip costs than its state-owned competitor. While the one-stop service via Budapest will result in a longer total travel time compared to Uzbekistan Airways’ direct flights, the lower operating costs could allow Qanot Sharq to offer more competitive fares, appealing to price-sensitive travelers and labor migrants.
Furthermore, the choice of Budapest as a stopover is strategic. If Qanot Sharq secures “Fifth Freedom” rights,which are currently a subject of regulatory negotiation,it could monetize the empty seats on the Budapest-New York sector, effectively competing in the transatlantic market while serving its primary base in Central Asia.
Sources: Airbus Press Release, Air Lease Corporation
Qanot Sharq Becomes First Central Asian Operator of Airbus A321XLR
Aircraft Configuration and Capabilities
Strategic Network Expansion
AirPro News Analysis: The Long-Haul Low-Cost Shift
Sources
Photo Credit: Airbus
Aircraft Orders & Deliveries
China Airlines Orders Five Additional Airbus A350-1000 Aircraft
China Airlines adds five Airbus A350-1000s to its fleet, enhancing capacity on transpacific and European routes with deliveries from 2026.
This article is based on an official press release from Airbus and additional industry data regarding fleet modernization.
China Airlines (CAL) has officially signed a firm orders for five additional Airbus A350-1000 aircraft, signaling a continued commitment to modernizing its long-haul operations. Announced on December 18, 2025, this agreement increases the Taiwan-based carrier’s total backlog for the A350-1000 variant to 15 aircraft. The move is part of a broader strategy to replace aging widebody jets and enhance capacity on high-density routes connecting Asia with North America and Europe.
According to the official statement released by Airbus, these new aircraft will join the airline’s existing fleet of 15 A350-900s. The decision to expand the A350-1000 order book underscores the operator’s reliance on the A350 family’s commonality, which allows for streamlined pilot training and maintenance procedures. Deliveries for the newly ordered jets are scheduled to commence in 2026 and continue through 2029.
The deal also highlights the competitive landscape of widebody aviation in the Asia-Pacific region. By securing these additional units, China Airlines aims to deploy its flagship product on slot-constrained routes where maximizing passenger count per movement is critical. The aircraft will be powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 engines, known for their efficiency in long-range operations.
China Airlines plans to utilize the A350-1000 primarily for its most prestigious long-haul markets. Industry reports indicate that the aircraft will be deployed on key transpacific routes to New York (JFK), Los Angeles (LAX), Seattle (SEA), and Ontario, California (ONT), as well as European hubs like London Heathrow (LHR). The A350-1000 offers significantly higher capacity than the -900 variant, making it a strategic asset for airports with limited landing slots.
Coinciding with these deliveries, the airline is preparing to unveil a major upgrade to its onboard product. Sources familiar with the carrier’s fleet planning suggest a new cabin design will debut in 2027. This retrofit is expected to feature business class suites with closing doors, 4K entertainment screens, and wireless charging capabilities, aiming to rival premium competitors such as Singapore Airlines and Cathay Pacific.
The interior aesthetic will likely continue the carrier’s “Oriental aesthetics” theme, utilizing persimmon wood-grain finishes and mood lighting to evoke a boutique hotel atmosphere. While the current A350-900 seats 306 passengers, the larger -1000 variant is projected to accommodate between 350 and 400 passengers, providing a substantial boost in premium economy and economy seat inventory.
Both China Airlines and Airbus executives emphasized the efficiency and passenger comfort benefits of the A350-1000. In the official press release, Kao Shing-Hwang, Chairman of China Airlines, noted the alignment of this order with the carrier’s sustainability and service goals. “Expanding our A350-1000 fleet marks another important step in our long-term growth strategy. The A350’s exceptional efficiency and passenger comfort align with our goals to modernize our fleet, enhance long-haul competitiveness, and deliver an elevated travel experience to our customers.”
Kao Shing-Hwang, Chairman of China Airlines
Benoit de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus EVP Sales, added that the repeat order validates the aircraft’s performance in the heavy widebody segment.
“This follow-on order is a strong vote of confidence in the A350-1000 as the right aircraft for China Airlines’ future network ambitions. Its next-generation efficiency, range, and cabin comfort brings even greater value to the airline and its passengers.”
Benoit de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus Sales
This order reinforces a “split fleet” procurement strategy that has become increasingly common among major global carriers. While China Airlines has committed to the Boeing 777X for specific high-volume trunk routes and the 787 Dreamliner for regional replacement, the expansion of the A350-1000 fleet secures Airbus’s position as the backbone of the airline’s medium-to-large widebody operations.
From a financial perspective, based on 2025 list prices of approximately $366.5 million per unit, the deal holds a theoretical face value of roughly $1.83 billion, though actual acquisition costs are typically 40-50% lower after standard industry discounts. Environmentally, the shift is significant; the A350-1000 offers a 25% reduction in fuel burn compared to the previous generation aircraft it replaces, such as the Boeing 747-400 freighters and older passenger jets. This efficiency gain is a critical component of the airline’s roadmap to achieving Net Zero carbon emissions by 2050.
China Airlines Bolsters Long-Haul Capacity with Additional A350-1000 Order
Strategic Deployment and Cabin Innovation
Next-Generation Passenger Experience
Executive Commentary
AirPro News Analysis
Sources
Photo Credit: Airbus
-
Commercial Aviation6 days agoVietnam Grounds 28 Aircraft Amid Pratt & Whitney Engine Shortage
-
Business Aviation3 days agoGreg Biffle and Family Die in North Carolina Plane Crash
-
Defense & Military5 days agoFinland Unveils First F-35A Lightning II under HX Fighter Program
-
Business Aviation2 days agoBombardier Global 8000 Gains FAA Certification as Fastest Business Jet
-
Technology & Innovation19 hours agoJoby Aviation and Metropolis Develop 25 US Vertiports for eVTOL Launch