Singapore Airlines is in discussions with Airbus and Boeing over a potential order for at least 50 large widebody aircraft, according to a Reuters report citing industry sources.
The airline is evaluating the Airbus A350-1000 and Boeing 777X, with the talks reportedly still at an early stage. Reuters said the deal could eventually include options for dozens of additional aircraft.
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A new order would represent the next stage of long-haul fleet renewal for Singapore Airlines, whose largest aircraft today include 65 Airbus A350-900s, 22 Boeing 777-300ERs and 12 Airbus A380s.
The carrier completed deliveries of its A350-900 fleet several years ago, while its 777-300ERs now average more than 16 years of age. Although the A380 remains a important part of Singapore Airlines' network, the airline has previously indicated it does not expect to operate the type indefinitely, leaving room for future replacement planning.
Singapore Airlines is already one of the largest customers for the Boeing 777X. In 2017, the airline ordered 20 Boeing 777-9s and added another 11 aircraft in 2021, bringing its commitment to 31 examples.
However, the 777X program remains affected by certification delays. Boeing had originally expected the aircraft to enter service in 2020, but a combination of technical issues, regulatory scrutiny and flight-test interruptions has pushed certification several years beyond the original schedule. FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford recently indicated that certification is now expected in early 2027.
The Airbus A350-1000 offers an alternative that is already in airline service and shares commonality with Singapore Airlines' existing A350-900 fleet. Airbus, however, has also warned customers about continued delivery delays affecting several programs as supply-chain constraints limit production growth.
A fleet decision involving either aircraft would likely shape Singapore Airlines' long-haul operations well into the 2030s. Both types are positioned in the 350- to 400-seat category and are capable of serving the carrier's longest routes across Europe, North America and Australia.
Neither Singapore Airlines, Airbus nor Boeing had publicly commented on the reported negotiations at the time of writing.
