Boeing Edges Closer to Historic Mega-Deal with China for 500 Jets Amid Trade Talks

Boeing is on the verge of sealing a monumental aircraft deal with China that could involve selling up to 500 planes, according to informed sources. If finalized, this agreement would end a prolonged freeze on sales that dates back to a high-level U.S. visit to Beijing in 2017.

Negotiations between Boeing and Chinese authorities are ongoing, centering on the mix of aircraft models, quantities, and delivery timelines. However, sources caution that the deal remains contingent on easing U.S.-China trade tensions and could still fall apart.
Chinese officials have already begun consulting local airlines about their aircraft needs. The potential order is expected to mirror a similar negotiation underway with Boeing’s European rival, Airbus, which could also encompass up to 500 planes, though details have not been publicly disclosed.

This Boeing deal is likely to serve as a cornerstone in a broader trade agreement benefiting both nations. A comparable pact was anticipated during a 2023 summit in San Francisco, but talks concluded without a final resolution.

Complicating matters is a recent leadership shift at Boeing’s operations in China, where the fluent Chinese-speaking CEO departed in recent weeks, and an interim president was appointed. Boeing has declined to comment on the prospective deal or the administrative changes.

Aircraft orders have been pivotal in U.S.-China trade diplomacy, especially under the current administration. China, facing delivery constraints from both Boeing and Airbus—most of which are sold out through the 2030s—seeks new planes to bolster its rapidly expanding aviation sector.

Boeing’s CEO expressed optimism in January, stating hopes for additional orders from China in the coming year. The company’s last major deal with China occurred in 2017, involving orders and commitments for 300 aircraft valued at $37 billion.