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China Southern Airlines has entered a $6bn deal with Airbus to buy 20 A350-900 widebody aircraft.

Delivery of the newly ordered aircraft is expected to begin by 2019 and will run through 2022, reported Bloomberg.

China Southern Airlines president Tan Wangeng said: “With its very long-range capability, economic fuel consumption and spacious cabin, the A350 XWB is the ideal choice for our international long-haul routes.

“The introduction of the A350 XWB will help to strengthen our position as one of the world’s leading international carriers.”

The airline currently operates an aircraft fleet that features more than 300 Airbus aircraft, including the A320 family, the A330 family and five A380 jets.

Airbus Commercial Aircraft customers chief operating officer John Leahy said: “The unrivalled operational performance, fuel-efficiency and cabin comfort of the A350 XWB will give China Southern Airlines a competitive edge on its international network.”

“The introduction of the A350 XWB will help to strengthen our position as one of the world’s leading international carriers.”

The latest order has brought Airbus’ total firm orders for A350 XWB aircraft to 841 from 45 customers worldwide.

The A350 XWB family is equipped with modern aerodynamic design, carbon-fibre fuselage and wings, as well as new fuel-efficient Rolls-Royce engines.

According to Airbus, the latest technologies used in its A350 XWB jets offer a 25% reduction in fuel burn and emissions.

The technologies also help aircraft operators in reducing maintenance costs.

Image: A China Southern Airlines aircraft. Photo: courtesy of  Airbus.