American aircraft manufacturer Boeing has resumed deliveries of its 737 MAX passenger jets to China after a months-long pause. A newly delivered aircraft that landed in China on Monday signals a possible easing of trade tensions between the U.S. and China, particularly in the aviation sector.
Deliveries Had Been Halted Due to Tariffs
In April, Boeing suspended its aircraft deliveries to China due to high reciprocal tariffs imposed by both countries. However, a temporary 90-day agreement reached at the end of May, which suspended the tariffs, has allowed deliveries to resume.
Departed from Seattle, Landed in Zhoushan
A 737 MAX aircraft painted in Xiamen Airlines livery departed from Seattle on Saturday, making refuelling stops in Hawaii and Guam before reaching Zhoushan in eastern China. The aircraft landed at Boeing’s completion centre in Zhoushan, marking a strong signal of the company’s renewed engagement with the Chinese market.
Originally Delivered in March, Returned in April
According to Flightradar24 data, the same aircraft had actually been delivered to Zhoushan back in March. However, as Chinese airlines suspended new purchases, it was returned to the U.S. in mid-April. This model was one of at least three 737 MAX aircraft that Boeing recalled from Zhoushan in April. It has now returned to Chinese territory.
Boeing Revives Its China Plans
Due to the slowdown in the Chinese market, Boeing had considered selling some of its aircraft to other countries, but these plans were never executed. The previously held aircraft are now being redirected to China. Experts view this development as a significant step towards normalisation—not just for Boeing, but for the global aviation industry as a whole.
The Chinese Market Is Crucial for Boeing
Roughly 10% of Boeing’s commercial aircraft orders come from China. In terms of both order volume and long-term growth potential, China remains strategically important for the company. Meanwhile, ongoing trade talks between Chinese and U.S. representatives in London on Monday are seen as a potential basis for broader economic easing between the two countries.
