A350-1000

Japan Airlines is considering buying 20 Airbus A350 aircraft for approximately JPY400bn ($4.23bn), a development that would reduce its reliance on Boeing.

The flag carrier is considering the purchase of A350-1000 jets in order to replace its Boeing 777 airliners that are currently being used for the flights to Europe and the US, according to the Nikkei daily.

A final decision on the purchase of the A350s will be made by the carrier before June, the report said.

The deal would be the first for Japan Airlines with the European aircraft manufacturer Airbus, and includes a simulation facility for pilot training.

Japan Airlines will retire its McDonnell Douglas MD-90 airliner following its final flight on 30 March, which would leave the carrier with an all-Boeing fleet of more than 100 jetliners, according to the report.

Since mid-January, the carrier’s seven Boeing 787s have been grounded following the lithium-ion battery failures on the aircraft.

"The A350 is scheduled to enter service in 2017."

The A350, which will compete with rival 787 Dreamliner, is scheduled to enter service in 2017.

Powered by new-generation Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines, the A350-1000 will feature the latest in aerodynamics, design and advanced technologies to provide 25% greater fuel efficiency compared with it existing long-range competitor, according to Airbus.

Capable of seating 350 passengers, the aircraft can also be configured for a higher-density layout to accommodate up to 440.

Around 70% of the A350 XWB’s airframe is made from advanced materials combining composites, titanium and advanced aluminium alloys.

The aircraft’s carbon fibre reinforced-plastic fuselage will also contribute to lower fuel-burn and easier maintenance.

Image: Japan Airlines would use the new A350-1000 jets to replace its Boeing 777 airliners, which are being used on flights to Europe and the US. Photo: Fixion / Airbus SAS.

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