02 May 2025
#1 May 2025: China Aviation Industry Newsletter
BOC Aviation to Lease Five Airbus A321neo Aircraft to Thai Airways
BOC Aviation has announced the placement of five Airbus A321neo aircraft, powered by CFM LEAP-1A engines, with Thai Airways International. All aircraft will be delivered from BOC Aviation’s direct orderbook with Airbus. This agreement reinforces the long-standing partnership between the two companies and comes at a time when Thai Airways is focused on fleet modernisation and regional network expansion. BOC Aviation CEO Steven Townend described the deal as a key step in the lessor’s strategic objective to deliver technologically advanced, fuel-efficient aircraft to top-tier airline partners. The transaction supports both BOC Aviation’s evolving portfolio strategy and Thai Airways’ continued post-restructuring growth trajectory.
Hainan Airlines Expands Edinburgh–Beijing Service to Year-Round Operations
Hainan Airlines will upgrade its Edinburgh–Beijing service to operate year-round, effective immediately. The route will operate twice weekly, on Mondays and Fridays, using a widebody Airbus A330-300. This marks a significant development in Scotland–China connectivity, with Edinburgh Airport remaining home to Scotland’s only direct air link to China. CEO Gordon Dewar noted that this expansion reflects sustained passenger and trade demand and aligns with the airport’s mission to strengthen global connectivity for Scottish businesses and tourism. The move comes as Chinese carriers continue re-establishing long-haul capacity, and as UK–China relations show encouraging signs of post-pandemic recovery.
HKIA Named “Best Airport in China” and Recognised for Sustainability
Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) has received two prestigious recognitions for 2025: “Best Airport in China” by the TTG China Travel Awards, and a Gold Award in the Airports Council International (ACI)’s Green Airports Recognition, thanks to its Renewable Diesel Pilot Project. This is HKIA’s second consecutive win as the best airport in the country, reaffirming its leadership in operational excellence, environmental performance, and network connectivity. Vivian Cheung, CEO of Airport Authority Hong Kong, credited the entire airport community for these achievements and underscored the organisation’s long-term commitment to delivering world-class service and sustainable innovation. HKIA continues to strengthen its position as a global aviation hub, balancing growth with environmental stewardship.
Acumen’s Take
On BOC Aviation’s A321neo Deal with Thai Airways
BOC Aviation’s latest lease placement is a strong signal of the resurgence in Asian regional fleet activity, with demand clearly returning for new-generation, fuel-efficient narrowbodies. Thai Airways’ decision to take five A321neos as part of its network rebuilding phase reinforces the growing importance of mid-capacity aircraft in Southeast Asian markets. Acumen sees this as a mutually strategic transaction, enhancing BOC Aviation’s forward book while helping Thai Airways boost operational efficiency and reach.
On Hainan’s Year-Round Service to Edinburgh
Hainan Airlines’ decision to operate Beijing–Edinburgh year-round reflects a confident long-haul recovery outlook and taps into pent-up demand between China and the UK. It also strategically positions Hainan as a key player in connecting China with smaller, high-potential European markets. For Edinburgh, this route provides critical access to the Chinese market for trade, tourism, and education, especially as bilateral ties improve.
On HKIA’s Dual Recognition for Quality and Sustainability
HKIA’s dual wins highlight its leadership not just in service delivery, but also in sustainability innovation. The success of its Renewable Diesel Pilot Project is particularly timely, reflecting broader trends as airports and operators face pressure to meet decarbonisation goals. Acumen views this as a benchmark achievement for Asia-Pacific airports striving to balance growth and green operations, and it solidifies HKIA’s place as a global hub of the future.
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