Thai Airways has reached an agreement with lessor CDB Aviation for the carrier to acquire two used Airbus A330-300 widebody aircraft.
The deal announced on January 2, 2023, represents the first time that Thai Airways and CBD Aviation have worked together, with delivery of the jets expected in September and October 2024.
“We are delighted to be welcoming Thai Airways to our growing Asian Pacific customer base,” Jie Chen, CDB Aviation’s Chief Executive Officer, said. “The increased widebody fleet will strengthen the carrier’s position across its key intra-Asian markets, providing the extra capacity needed to meet the high season and rising travel demand in many regions.”
Rumors began circulating in November 2023 that the Taiwanese flag-carrier was in discussions with Airbus, Boeing and various leasing companies with a view to acquiring 90 new aircraft.
The airline was particularly focused on securing widebody aircraft as passenger demand surged following the pandemic.
“We’re continuing to see the heightened demand from airlines amidst a tight supply of new and used aircraft, driven primarily by the need to meet growing passenger volumes. Our commercial team remains focused on comprehending and fulfilling the diverse needs of our customers, assisting them in addressing both immediate and longer-term fleet challenges that necessitate resolution,” Chen added.
Thai Airlines currently operates a fleet consisting of three A330-300s, 16 A350-900s, six Boeing 777-200ERs, 17 Boeing 777-300ERs, six 787-8s, and a pair of 787-9s.
The carrier also operates a short-haul fleet of 20 A320-200s, although ten are operated by the airline’s low-cost arm, Thai Smile.
