Air TransportBoeing is reportedly in negotiations with Chinese officials over a possible order for as many as 500 aircraft, Bloomberg reported on Thursday.
The outlet did not mention which aircraft are being evaluated, but it is understood that both the 737 MAX and the widebodies 787 Dreamliner and 777X fit the Chinese carriers’ fleet profile.
If completed, the deal would represent China’s first large-scale purchase of Boeing jets since 2017 and could serve as a centerpiece in broader U.S.–China trade discussions.
The timing is significant: in recent years, China’s state-owned carriers — Air China, China Southern Airlines and China Eastern Airlines — have mainly ordered Airbus aircraft, while also backing the development of domestic jets from COMAC, including the C919 narrowbody and the upcoming C929 widebody.
This strategic alignment has sidelined Boeing from the Chinese market, with only a handful of deliveries in recent years.
According to the report, Beijing has begun consulting airlines about their future fleet requirements as talks with Washington gain momentum. However, the outcome remains uncertain. Similar negotiations nearly materialized in 2023 under then-President Joe Biden but ultimately collapsed.
The latest push comes under President Donald Trump’s second term, amid high tariffs on Chinese goods and ongoing trade disputes.
Despite these headwinds, the prospect of a major Chinese order boosted investor sentiment: Boeing shares gained around 2% on Thursday, extending a rally of more than 25% in 2025.
