Paris Air Show 2025: Airbus Bags Order For 40 Planes From Saudi Arabia-based Aircraft Lessor
Airbus has bagged orders from AviLease for A350F freighters and 30 A320neo Family aircraft. Image courtesy: Airbus
Saudi Arabia-based aircraft lessor AviLease has signed a significant order with Airbus at the 2025 Paris Airshow, committing to purchase 10 A350F freighters and 30 A320neo Family aircraft in a deal that underscores the company’s ambitions as a global leasing leader. The agreement includes options to expand the order to 22 A350F freighters and 55 A320neo aircraft in the future.
This marks the establishment of AviLease’s Airbus order book and is seen as a major step in its strategy to become a full-service, investment-grade lessor with a modern, fuel-efficient fleet.
What makes the Airbus A350F freighter a game-changer in the cargo market?
The A350F is Airbus’s next-generation wide-body freighter designed for fuel efficiency, range, and capacity. With the largest main deck cargo door in the industry and an airframe made of over 70% advanced materials, it boasts a take-off weight that is 46 tonnes lighter than the nearest competing derivative.
The aircraft is also the only freighter that will fully comply with ICAO’s enhanced carbon dioxide emissions standards set to take effect in 2027. Airbus says the A350F offers at least 20% less fuel burn, better load efficiency, and a longer operational range—key advantages for cargo operators.
Why is the A320neo Family still the most popular single-aisle aircraft for lessors?
The A320neo Family remains a best-seller thanks to its combination of fuel savings (up to 20%), Sharklet wingtip devices, and next-generation engines.
The aircraft also features cabin upgrades and efficiency enablers that support low operating costs and high dispatch reliability—attributes that make them attractive to both full-service and low-cost carriers. Airbus EVP of Commercial Sales, Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, noted that this dual order shows the “broad appeal” of Airbus aircraft among lessors, and positions AviLease as a competitive player with versatile offerings in both passenger and cargo segments.
