Boeing confirms China’s commitment to purchase 200 aircraft

The company stated that the trip to China was highly successful and achieved its primary objective of reopening the Chinese market for Boeing aircraft orders. Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg was part of the US delegation during the visit.

Initial agreement could lead to additional orders

Boeing said the agreement includes an initial commitment for 200 aircraft, adding that it expects further commitments to follow after this first tranche. The company also thanked the Trump administration for helping secure the milestone agreement.

The aerospace manufacturer noted that it now looks forward to meeting China’s growing demand for aircraft.

First major Boeing order From China since 2017

China’s last major aircraft order from Boeing was made in 2017 during Trump’s first presidential term, when Beijing agreed to purchase 300 single-aisle and wide-body aircraft in a deal valued at $37 billion.

On Thursday, Trump referred to the latest commitment during an interview with Fox News host Sean Hannity, saying he believed it was a firm commitment and highlighting the potential economic benefits and job creation linked to the agreement.

Potential for record-breaking aircraft deal

Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One while returning from China, Trump said the agreement could eventually expand to include up to 750 aircraft if the initial 200-plane deal proceeds successfully.

US media reports have indicated for several months that Beijing was preparing a major Boeing order involving around 500 single-aisle 737 MAX aircraft, in addition to approximately 100 larger 787 Dreamliners and 777 aircraft.