Trump touts Boeing-China deal: 200 planes, could rise to 750
Trump touts Boeing-China deal: 200 planes, could rise to 750
Trump says Boeing has a deal to sell 200 planes to China, with potential to expand to 750, as Boeing navigates past safety, production hurdles and a tense trade climate.
President Donald Trump raised expectations about a major Boeing sale to China, saying the plan calls for at least 200 aircraft with the potential to grow to as many as 750. He told reporters aboard Air Force One during a trip to Beijing that the deal was struck during his summit with President Xi Jinping this week, though White House officials have not released any formal details.
Industry observers see the claim as a bold sign of Beijing's appetite for wide-body and narrow-body jetliners, and for Boeing as it tries to rebound from a difficult period. Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg joined Trump for the trip, underscoring the company's push to win back a crucial market that once powered its long-term growth.
Trump also asserted that General Electric would supply 400 to 450 engines for the deal, highlighting the broader American aerospace supply chain that could accompany such a sale. GE did not comment immediately on the agreement. Boeing has faced scrutiny over 737 Max production and safety issues, including a door plug incident that occurred in Portland, Oregon earlier this year, reviving questions about quality controls.
U.S. authorities revived a criminal case related to the two fatal Max crashes last year, though prosecutors ultimately dismissed it after Boeing agreed to pay about $1.1 billion in penalties, compensation, and internal safety improvements. An eight-week machinists' strike in Washington state also disrupted production and added to the company's financial strain. If realized, the China deal would mark a significant breakthrough in a market that has eluded Boeing for years.
China's last order from Boeing dates back to 2017, so a fresh commitment would be a notable turnaround, particularly as Beijing pursues broader aviation upgrades and expands its own aerospace capabilities. While many questions remain about pricing, delivery timelines, and political considerations, the prospect of a large, multi-year sales agreement is sure to draw attention from markets and competitors alike.
