PARIS: The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Canada’s Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions, today issued a statement celebrating the recent sales agreement between Airbus and LOT Polish Airlines for the purchase of A220 aircraft. The announcement, made during the prestigious Paris Air Show, underscores Canada’s growing influence in the global aerospace sector and highlights the country’s commitment to innovation and economic resilience.
LOT Polish Airlines has placed a firm order with Airbus for 20 A220-100s and 20 A220-300s, marking the first time Poland’s national carrier has selected Airbus aircraft as part of its fleet modernisation. The agreement which could foresee a future increase to 84 A220 aircraft was announced at the 2025 Paris Air Show.
In her statement, Minister Joly emphasized the significance of the deal amid a complex global trade environment marked by geopolitical uncertainties. “Global trade is more uncertain and the geopolitical landscape is shifting, but Canada is forging ahead to strengthen ties with trusted partners—and strengthening the strategic industries that will anchor our economic security for decades to come,” she noted.
The sale of the A220 jets to LOT Polish Airlines represents a notable milestone for Canada’s aerospace industry. The A220, a state-of-the-art aircraft designed and developed in Canada, is assembled in Mirabel, Quebec. It is supported by a robust Canadian supply chain and a highly skilled workforce, making it a symbol of national pride and industrial excellence.
“This represents another in a long list of airlines adding the A220 to its fleet, a clear signal of international confidence in Canadian innovation and industrial strength,” Minister Joly said. The A220 program has steadily gained traction worldwide, with numerous airlines recognizing its efficiency, advanced technology, and environmental benefits.
More than just an aircraft sale, the deal signifies deepening economic and diplomatic ties between Canada, Poland, and the European Union. Minister Joly highlighted this aspect, stating, “This is more than an aircraft sale. It’s a testament to the strength of the Canada-Poland and Canada-EU relationship in an increasingly competitive global economy.”
The agreement is expected to have a substantial positive impact on Canada’s economy, particularly in Quebec, where the A220 is assembled. The order will help sustain and create thousands of high-paying jobs across the country, from engineering and manufacturing to supply chain management and after-sales support. It also reinforces Canada’s reputation as a global leader in aerospace innovation.
Minister Joly underscored the broader strategic importance of the deal, saying, “This is what we mean when we say the next era is about building in Canada—with Canada.” The government’s focus on nurturing homegrown industries and fostering international partnerships is central to its economic development strategy.
The A220 aircraft program is a flagship example of Canadian ingenuity in aerospace. Originally developed by Bombardier Aerospace as the CSeries, the program was acquired by Airbus in 2018, which has since expanded its global reach and market presence. The aircraft is celebrated for its fuel efficiency, reduced emissions, and passenger comfort, making it a preferred choice for airlines seeking to modernize their fleets sustainably.
“Today’s decision is about the future. The Airbus A220 family aircraft, which will start joining our fleet in 2027, open up new opportunities for development and growth – key pillars of our strategy. These modern, efficient, and passenger-focused aircraft will allow us to compete effectively in the European skies, strengthen our position as the preferred carrier in Central and Eastern Europe, and prepare LOT for its role as a leading airline at the Central Communication Port,” said Michał Fijoł, LOT Executive Officer.
“This order for 40 Airbus A220s marks a historic milestone as we officially welcome LOT Polish Airlines into the Airbus family. The A220 Family will be instrumental in LOT’s fleet modernisation and network expansion strategy with the A220-100 and A220-300 being the ideal combination for their needs. We look forward to working hand-in-hand with LOT, leveraging Airbus global expertise to support its renewal program and ensure the A220’s seamless integration,” said Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus EVP Sales of the Commercial Aircraft business.
The A220 aircraft will gradually replace the LOT’s existing regional fleet, offering new possibilities for route development and new destinations thanks to the A220 benefits.
Combining the longest range, lowest fuel consumption, the A220 is the most modern airliner in its size category, carrying between 100 to 160 passengers on flights of up to 3,600 nautical miles (6,700 km). Depending on cabin configuration, the A220-100 serves the 100-135 seat market, while the larger A220-300 is perfectly tailored for the 120-160 seat market. The A220 is powered by Pratt & Whitney’s latest-generation PW1500 GTF engines and offers a 50% smaller noise footprint compared to the previous generation of aircraft.
As with all Airbus aircraft, the A220 is already capable of operating with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). Airbus is targeting for its aircraft to be 100% SAF capable by 2030.
At the end of May 2025, the A220 had secured over 900 firm orders from more than 30 customers worldwide, with over 415 aircraft already delivered. The A220 is currently in successful service with 24 airlines globally, operating on more than 1,600 routes and serving over 470 destinations.
