Boeing Resumes Deliveries to China After Pause Due to Tariff War
Boeing is ready to resume aircraft deliveries to China following an interruption caused by escalating trade tensions between Washington and Beijing. A 737 MAX in Xiamen Airlines livery departed from Seattle on Friday bound for Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, the first leg of its usual journey to Boeing’s delivery center in China, according to FlightRadar24 records.
A Pause That Began in April
In April, Boeing was forced to suspend deliveries to Chinese customers in direct response to tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump. This measure severely impacted both the manufacturer and airlines in the Asian giant. The disruption even compelled the U.S. manufacturer to repatriate at least three 737 MAX units from its completion center in Zhoushan, near Shanghai, back to the United States.
Resumption Driven by Temporary Agreement
On May 12, the U.S. and China agreed to lift most tariffs for 90 days, paving the way for a gradual resumption of deliveries. Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg confirmed on May 29 that Chinese airlines would resume accepting aircraft starting in June.
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Additionally, President Trump announced that representatives from both countries would meet on June 9 in London to discuss a potential broader trade agreement.
China, a Key Market for Boeing
China accounts for approximately 10% of Boeing’s commercial portfolio, making it a strategic market. In April, the company had planned to deliver 50 aircraft to Chinese airlines for the remainder of the year, 41 of which were already in production or pre-assembled.
Although Boeing mentioned that other airlines had expressed interest in acquiring the aircraft rejected by China, it did not proceed to redistribute them. The priority remained reducing accumulated inventory levels.
Official Silence from China
Neither the Chinese government nor Xiamen Airlines has commented on the resumption. For its part, Boeing has remained discreet about the final destination of the 737 MAX that left Seattle. Nevertheless, the revival of delivery flights is a clear sign that trade relations are beginning to thaw.
The resumption of deliveries to China provides financial relief for Boeing and marks a positive step in the recovery of bilateral relations. As the outcome of the June 9 talks in London is awaited, the aviation industry is closely watching every move.
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