AirAsia Breaks Records with Massive Order of 150 Airbus A220s
In a historic announcement on May 6, 2026, at the Airbus’ Mirabel facility in Canada, Malaysian budget carrier AirAsia has placed a firm order for 150 Airbus A220-300 aircraft. This order marks the largest single order in the program’s history, pushing total A220 orders past the 1,000 milestone.
This multi-billion dollar deal signifies AirAsia’s initiation into the A220 family. The airline will become the launch customer for a new high-density 160-seat cabin configuration, made possible by adding extra overwing exits. The aircraft, powered by Pratt & Whitney GTF engines, are scheduled for delivery starting in 2028. The deal also includes a 12-year comprehensive maintenance agreement.
AirAsia CEO Tony Fernandes highlighted the strategic importance of the order. He stated that it reflects the airline’s ambition to build “the world’s first true low-cost network carrier.” The A220s will enable AirAsia to serve new routes across ASEAN and Central Asia that are not economically viable with larger aircraft. Fernandes also publicly urged Airbus to develop the proposed A220-500 variant, pledging to order another 150 aircraft if the larger version is built.
The deal carries significant political weight for Canada, where all 150 aircraft will be assembled at the Mirabel facility. This will support thousands of jobs across the country’s aerospace sector.
Source: Airbus Press Releases