08 Jan 2026
#1 January 2026: China Aviation Industry Newsletter
CALC Orders 30 New Airbus A320neo Aircraft
China Aircraft Leasing Group Holdings Limited (CALC) announced a firm order for 30 Airbus A320neo aircraft, reinforcing its long-term commitment to next-generation narrowbody fleets and its partnership with Airbus. Deliveries are scheduled through to 2033 and include conversion rights across the A320 family. Following this transaction, CALC’s remaining Airbus orderbook increases to 105 aircraft, taking its total Airbus orders to 282 and cementing its position as one of Airbus’ largest lessor customers. CALC CEO Mike Poon said the order reflects the company’s confidence in global aviation fundamentals and its strategy to build a future-ready, sustainable fleet.
Cathay Group Appoints New Chair
The Cathay Group announced that Patrick Healy will step down as Chair of the Board on 13 May 2026 and retire from the Swire Group later that month, concluding a career of more than 30 years. Guy Bradley, JP, will assume the role of Chair effective 13 May 2026. Bradley acknowledged Healy’s leadership during the pandemic period, noting Cathay’s recovery to pre-pandemic capacity levels and expansion to more than 100 destinations. As incoming Chair, Bradley stated his focus will be on enhancing group performance while continuing to support Hong Kong’s position as a leading global aviation hub.
High Ridge Aviation Purchases A330 P2F from CDB Aviation
High Ridge Aviation (HRA) announced the acquisition of an Airbus A330-300 passenger-to-freighter aircraft (MSN 958) from CDB Aviation. The aircraft is on lease to MasAir, a Mexico-based cargo operator with an all-A330 P2F fleet. The transaction marks HRA’s first deal with CDB Aviation, its first P2F aircraft, and establishes MasAir as a new customer. HRA CEO Greg Conlon said the acquisition aligns with the company’s growth strategy and reflects confidence in the A330 P2F platform as a proven solution for global cargo operations.
Acumen’s Take
On CALC’s A320neo Order
CALC’s latest A320neo order highlights continued lessor conviction in next-generation narrowbody demand. With deliveries stretching to 2033, the deal reflects a long-term view on fleet renewal, fuel efficiency, and sustained airline demand despite near-term market volatility.
On Cathay Group’s Leadership Transition
The leadership transition at Cathay signals continuity rather than strategic shift. With fleet recovery largely complete and network breadth restored, focus now moves toward operational optimisation, profitability, and reinforcing Hong Kong’s role as a key international aviation hub.
On High Ridge Aviation’s Entry into P2F
High Ridge Aviation’s first A330 P2F acquisition marks a strategic expansion into the cargo segment. With widebody freighter demand remaining structurally strong, the move positions HRA to benefit from long-term growth in global air cargo and fleet conversion activity.
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