**Airbus Explores A220-500 Variant to Boost Capacity Amidst Demand Challenges**
Airbus SE is gauging customer interest in a longer version of its A220-300 jet, known as the A220-500, which would offer airlines increased seating capacity at the cost of range. With the Paris Air Show set to begin on Monday, this potential variant is back in the spotlight. The European aircraft manufacturer is also looking to secure new orders for its existing A220 model, including discussions with AirAsia for up to 100 units, according to sources familiar with the negotiations. Airbus has long maintained that it is only a matter of time before it introduces a larger version of the aircraft.
This new derivative could serve as a modern alternative to the smaller models in the A320 family and compete with Boeing’s 737 Max, a move that could catch Boeing off guard as they currently lack a direct response.
Airbus is under pressure to stimulate demand for the A220, which has seen a declining backlog and remains unprofitable. Since the start of last year, total net sales have decreased by 10 units, and the aircraft has not received any new orders this year, suffering one cancellation instead. As of the end of May, the backlog was just under 500 units.
The company is leaning towards a simpler engineering approach that would retain the same wing and engine as the current models, according to insiders. While this option may limit the aircraft’s range—making transcontinental flights in the U.S. unfeasible—it would enhance capacity and simplify the development process, potentially reducing costs and time.
However, it is important to note that a straightforward stretch version is just one of several options being considered, and no final decision has been made yet, with timing still uncertain. An Airbus spokesperson confirmed that the company will continue to invest in the A220 platform and explore all possibilities, emphasizing that decisions regarding future variants will be made when appropriate.
Airbus took over the engineering studies for a third A220 model when it acquired the jetliner family from Bombardier Inc. in 2018. Bombardier originally designed the aircraft, then known as the C-Series, but faced challenges in achieving sufficient sales.
A larger A220 variant could introduce a new narrowbody option in a market that is currently lacking next-generation jets. Both Airbus and Boeing are sold out for their popular A320 and 737 models into the next decade, and neither company is close to launching an all-new model to replace these industry staples. The proposed A220-500 would involve lengthening the fuselage of the A220-300, providing a straightforward solution to meet market demands.
**FAQ**
**What is the A220-500?**
The A220-500 is a proposed longer version of Airbus’s A220-300 jet, aimed at increasing seating capacity while potentially sacrificing some range.
