Airbus has entered a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Taiwan-based China Airlines (CAL) to support the latter's maintenance, engineering and technical training capabilities.

As part of the new MoU, both parties will jointly evaluate technical and business solutions to develop services for all Airbus aircraft currently operated by CAL.

"China Airlines and our associated TAMECO maintenance subsidiary are looking forward to accelerating our maintenance and engineering capabilities."

The companies will also mutually evaluate and promote CAL’s retrofit activities, as well as cabin and airframe modifications.

The deal also includes the feasibility assessment of approving CAL’s maintenance training centre and the development of its maintenance training capabilities in Taiwan.

The companies have further agreed to evaluate the benefits of Satair Group and other Airbus affiliates becoming key parts providers for CAL.

China Airlines chairman Ho Nuan-Hsuan said: “Through Airbus’ valuable industry know-how, China Airlines and our associated TAMECO maintenance subsidiary are looking forward to accelerating our maintenance and engineering capabilities for the major Airbus aircraft types, including the newly introduced A350 XWB.”

Receiving its first A350 XWB last September, the carrier currently operates A330/A340 and A320 aircraft families from Airbus.

CAL also has four A350-900 jets in service, with ten more on order for future delivery.

Last November, Airbus signed a MoU with Etihad Airways to work jointly to develop a new maintenance, repair and operations (MRO) services offering for A380 jet operators worldwide.

Image: A China Airlines flight. Photo: courtesy of Airbus.