International Airlines Group (IAG) has placed firm orders for 53 new long-haul aircraft with Boeing and Airbus, targeting fleet renewal and expansion across its airline brands, including British Airways, Aer Lingus, Iberia, and LEVEL.
Order Details and Distribution
The order consists of 32 Boeing 787-10 aircraft exclusively for British Airways and 21 Airbus A330-900neo aircraft, which will be allocated among other IAG airlines such as Aer Lingus, Iberia, and LEVEL. Deliveries are expected to take place between 2028 and 2033. In addition to these confirmed orders, IAG has secured options for up to 10 additional Boeing 787s and up to 13 more Airbus A330-900neos, providing flexibility for further fleet growth or replacement as needed [2][3][4][5].
Fleet Renewal and Growth Plans
Of the 53 aircraft ordered, 35 will be used to replace aging or leased planes across the group, while the remaining 18 are intended to support expansion in IAG's key long-haul markets. British Airways will operate the new Boeing 787-10s, powered by General Electric engines, and the Airbus A330-900neos will be equipped with Rolls-Royce engines [2][3]. The company stated that these new aircraft would enhance operational efficiency and improve customer experience while reducing environmental impact.
Strategic Rationale and Financial Considerations
IAG CEO Luis Gallego highlighted that this investment positions the group to strengthen its market presence and improve shareholder value in the coming decade. The new, fuel-efficient aircraft are expected to reduce operating costs and emissions compared to older models. The group’s statement emphasized that the orders align with IAG's long-term strategy for profitable growth and sustainable operations [3].
Recent Fleet Expansion Activity
This latest commitment follows previous orders placed in March 2025, which included six Airbus A350-900s for Iberia, as well as six Airbus A350-1000s and six Boeing 777-9s destined for British Airways, reflecting IAG's ongoing focus on renewing its widebody fleet [3].
Analysis
IAG's decision to order both Boeing and Airbus long-haul aircraft demonstrates a balanced approach to fleet modernization, leveraging technological advancements from both manufacturers. The combination of replacement and growth aircraft supports the group's dual objectives of maintaining efficient operations and expanding in profitable markets. With major leases expiring and older planes due for retirement, analysts view this move as a standard yet significant step for a holding company with a global network. CEO Luis Gallego's remarks underline the expectation of improved shareholder returns and customer experience through the introduction of newer, more efficient equipment [3].
Outlook
Market observers anticipate the new deliveries will help IAG remain competitive with other leading global carriers, enhancing both efficiency and passenger appeal. The flexible options for additional orders provide room for further expansion or adaptation to future market demand. With the long delivery schedule extending into the next decade, the group's fleet strategy aligns with broader industry trends toward sustainability and operational optimization. The impact on IAG's financials will be spread over several years, reducing risk and supporting a gradual transition to modern aircraft.
