Boeing recently reported that 11 Chinese airlines have resumed operating the 737 MAX as of April 10th. This development is a significant milestone for the U.S. planemaker as it looks to rebuild its presence in the world’s second-largest aviation market.
The Gradual Return and Impact on the Market
As of April 10th, 43 737 MAX aircraft are back in commercial service, which accounts for approximately 45% of the Chinese 737 MAX fleet, according to Boeing’s official WeChat account. The 737 MAX was grounded worldwide in March 2019 after fatal crashes in Indonesia and Ethiopia. Since then, Boeing has made necessary modifications to the aircraft and enhanced pilot training. The 737 MAX began resuming service around the world in late 2020, with China being the last major market to reintroduce the aircraft to its airspace.
The ongoing trade tensions between China and the United States have had an impact on the MAX’s reintroduction, but the recent return comes as domestic travel demand in China rebounds. This is primarily due to the country moving away from its zero-COVID policies. International airlines started operating the MAX in China in October 2022. In January, China Southern Airlines flew the first passenger flight with the MAX in nearly four years, traveling from Guangzhou to Zhengzhou.
Boeing’s Commitment to Chinese Airlines
Boeing did not disclose the names of the 11 airlines, but carriers such as Hainan Airlines Holding Co Ltd, Fuzhou Airlines, Lucky Air, and Air China have flown the jets in recent months. To facilitate the smooth return of the 737 MAX and enhance pilot training, Boeing upgraded a flight training device for the 737 MAX in Shanghai.
Sherry Carbary, President of Boeing China, emphasized the company’s commitment to its civil aircraft customers in China. She stated that the equipment upgrade would further enhance support for Chinese 737 MAX customers as they expand the aircraft’s operations in and around the country, ensuring a more robust aviation market in the region.
The gradual return of the Boeing 737 MAX to Chinese airlines marks a significant step forward for the U.S. planemaker in reestablishing its presence in the world’s second-largest aviation market. With nearly half of the Chinese 737 MAX fleet back in operation and an upgraded flight training device in place, Boeing continues to demonstrate its commitment to supporting its Chinese customers. As domestic travel demand rebounds in China, the successful reintroduction of the 737 MAX is expected to contribute to a stronger aviation market and enhanced air travel experience for passengers.
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