China Eastern Airlines successfully operated a commercial flight from Shanghai to Beijing using a C919 aircraft, which is a significant achievement for its manufacturer, Commercial Aviation Corp of China (COMAC).
The CEO of Boeing, Dave Calhoun, dismissed the idea that China's first commercial flight of their own C919 narrowbody jet could lead to the end of the current duopoly in the aviation industry held by Boeing and Airbus, according to Reuters.
Nothing to Worry About
Calhoun stated that the C919 is a decent aircraft, but it will take a significant amount of time for COMAC to establish the necessary production capacity to satisfy the demand of Chinese airlines.
He also mentioned that having three providers in the expanding global market should not be a cause for concern and believes that becoming too anxious about this matter is unnecessary.
Calhoun suggested that Boeing should concentrate on the current competition and strive to emerge victorious in the technology race. Even though China is still a customer and friend, business operations could be disrupted due to political tensions.
Earlier this year, Chinese airlines resumed using the 737 MAX aircraft. However, the delivery of new planes has been delayed due to tensions between the United States and China. Despite this, all Chinese airlines have resumed flying their existing 737 MAX fleet.
The Chinese aviation regulator released a report on the 737 in April, and Calhoun stated that it was a crucial move towards resuming MAX deliveries following two fatal crashes in 2018 and 2019 that claimed the lives of 346 individuals.
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Boeing Gives Reassurance
On Tuesday, Calhoun gave a statement to the media while visiting Boeing's facilities in Charleston, South Carolina, which is where they manufacture the 787 Dreamliner aircraft with a wide body.
(Photo: Wikimedia Commons / mr_t_77) Boeing's offices in Arlington County, Virginia, are the corporate headquarters of the company as of 2022.
Before the Paris Air Show, where Boeing and Airbus compete for orders, Calhoun stated that Boeing could handle challenges such as competition from other companies and issues with their supply chain.
Airbus is considering the launch of a longer version of its A220 aircraft, which could potentially compete with Boeing's popular 737 MAX 8. However, the CEO of Boeing, Calhoun, has stated that he is not worried about this potential competition and that it is not necessary for Boeing to regain a 50% market share in narrowbody plane orders over Airbus.
Calhoun stated that Boeing's significant decrease in market share during the last four years was mainly caused by its failure to deliver planes. This was due to various reasons, such as the MAX crisis in 2019, as well as challenges with their supply chain and production processes.
Not Buying Spirit Back
Calhoun denied rumors that Boeing might attempt to buy back Spirit AeroSystems, a company that was separated from Boeing in 2005 and manufactures significant aircraft components such as the 737 MAX fuselage and front section of the 787, as well as crucial parts of Airbus planes.
Overall, while acknowledging some setbacks over recent years, Calhoun conveyed an attitude of resilience and determination, moving forward into what promises to be another highly competitive year at Paris Air Show.
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