Air Europa has formally confirmed a firm order with Airbus for up to 40 A350-900 widebody aircraft. The Spanish carrier announced the deal on January 22, 2026, at the FITUR tourism fair in Madrid. It finalises an earlier agreement signed during the Dubai Airshow in November 2025. The A350-900s will become the cornerstone of the airline’s long-haul fleet renewal and expansion strategy.
Better for the Planet and Passengers
The Airbus A350-900 brings unmissable efficiency gains. Its modern design and new Rolls-Royce engines cut fuel use and CO₂ emissions by about 25% compared to older planes. It can also fly with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). For travellers, the cabin is quieter and more comfortable. It has higher humidity, lower cabin pressure, and bigger windows. This aligns with Air Europa’s focus on quality service on long flights.
Long-Haul Fleet Shifts From Boeing to Airbus
The order marks a strategic shift for Air Europa, which currently relies on an all-Boeing long-haul fleet of 28 Dreamliners (10 787-8s and 18 787-9s). The new A350-900s are expected to initially replace the older 787-8s, which average nearly ten years of age. Air Europa operates 83 weekly flights from Madrid to Latin America, a region the airline describes as the most distinctive part of its network. The A350’s range of up to 9,700 nautical miles makes it ideally suited for these demanding transatlantic routes.
Air Europa’s Plan for Growth
This massive investment comes during a time of change for Air Europa. The airline recently appointed Richard Clark as its new CEO, who stated that the goal is to “strengthen Madrid as a hub linking continents”.
Furthermore, Turkish Airlines finalised an agreement in late 2025 to acquire a 25-27% stake in the Spanish carrier, pending regulatory approval. The A350 fleet will support broader network ambitions, potentially including new routes to Africa and Asia.
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