TAIPEI- China Airlines (CI) expects to receive its first Boeing 787 aircraft in the first quarter of 2026, with commercial service starting by June 2026 on routes to Bangkok (BKK) or Tokyo (HND).
At a media event in Thailand, China Airlines President Chen Han-ming confirmed that flight tests for the new Boeing 787s are underway, marking a key step in the airline’s long-term fleet modernization plan.
China Airlines Boeing 787 Routes
The airline originally ordered 16 Boeing 787s in August 2022, later adding eight more in May 2023, bringing the total to 24 aircraft. Of these, six will be the higher-capacity Boeing 787-10 variant, suitable for regional and medium-haul routes in Asia.
China Airlines plans to deploy the aircraft to replace its aging Airbus A330s, which have been frequently criticized by passengers for outdated interiors.
While the first 787 delivery was initially scheduled for 2025, the timeline has shifted to early 2026 due to production delays. Between three and five aircraft are now expected to arrive within that year.
The airline aims to gradually phase out its older widebody fleet as part of a broader strategy to enhance efficiency and passenger comfort.
Preparing for the Next Generation Travel
In addition to the Boeing 787s, China Airlines has ordered 10 Airbus A350-1000 aircraft, expected to join the fleet starting in 2029.
These long-range jets, along with Boeing’s 777-9 and 777-8F cargo aircraft scheduled for delivery from 2030, will support the airline’s growth in intercontinental markets.
The Airbus A350-1000 and Boeing 777-9 are intended to serve long-distance routes to North America and Europe, expanding the carrier’s reach and maintaining competitive service standards across its network.
Cabin Upgrades and Passenger Experience
To ensure consistency across its fleet, China Airlines has also commissioned Airbus to refurbish the cabins of 15 existing A350 aircraft.
The upgraded interiors are set to debut in 2027, aligning the passenger experience with the airline’s upcoming generation of widebody aircraft.
This combination of new deliveries and modernized cabins underscores China Airlines’ commitment to providing improved efficiency, sustainability, and onboard comfort across both regional and international routes.
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