AirAsia Strikes Monumental $12.3B Deal for 70 Airbus A321XLR Jets
AirAsia has recently made headlines by securing a groundbreaking $12.3 billion agreement for up to 70 Airbus A321XLR aircraft. This marks one of the largest single-aisle aircraft orders in recent aviation history. The deal was announced during Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s official visit to France.
The agreement includes firm orders for 50 jets with options for 20 more. This strategic move signals AirAsia’s ambitious expansion beyond Southeast Asia. The A321XLR’s impressive range of 4,700 nautical miles will enable the airline to launch direct low-cost routes to Europe and North America.
AirAsia’s CEO, Tony Fernandes, described the order as a “fleet reset” that will allow AirAsia to offer fares 30-50% cheaper than traditional carriers on long-haul routes.
- Deliveries are expected to begin in 2027-2028
- The full rollout is expected to extend through 2032
The timing of this deal coincides with AirAsia’s emergence from financial restructuring. This positions the airline as a major disruptor in the global low-cost long-haul market.