Air China is to raise its recent Airbus A319 order from eight to 12 aircraft, to allow it to replace its ageing BAe 146s.
Industry sources in China say the airline has taken an internal decision to increase its firm deal to 12, for delivery between this year and 2006. Sources say the airline is awaiting final approval from the Chinese government to sign a firm contract with Airbus.
Late last year the Chinese flag carrier ordered eight International Aero Engines V2500-powered A319s and took options on two more of the type. The deal replaced an earlier commitment by the airline for eight smaller Pratt & Whitney PW6000-powered A318s which was cancelled as a result of development problems with the new engine. Other than its four BAe 146-100s, Air China's short haul fleet is comprised entirely of Boeing 737s - 19 -300s and 11 -800s. The airline's only in-service Airbus aircraft are three long range A340-300s.
Source: Flight International
