Airbus Aims to Introduce an Upgraded A220 by 2028

Airbus is continuing its efforts to further develop the A220 aircraft family. The company plans to introduce improvements aimed at enhancing the aircraft’s operational efficiency by 2028.

Airbus is working on a high-density cabin configuration that would increase the seating capacity of the A220-300 from 150 to 160 passengers. The new configuration will feature an additional overwing emergency exit on each side of the aircraft to meet emergency evacuation requirements. Airbus aims to obtain certification from Transport Canada in 2028 and begin deliveries that same year, provided the process progresses as planned.

Johan Pelissier, Airbus Head of Commercial for Europe, stated that the new cabin configuration has attracted interest in 30% to 40% of ongoing sales discussions across Europe. AirAsia has become the launch customer for the 160-seat A220-300, with an order for 150 aircraft. This configuration is a separate development from the stretched A220-500 variant, which Airbus is also exploring.