Boeing Resumes 737 MAX Aircraft Deliveries to China

DALLAS — Boeing has resumed deliveries of its 737 MAX aircraft to China, marking a significant shift following a months-long suspension caused by escalating trade tensions between the United States and China. 

The first newly delivered 737 MAX, painted in the livery of Xiamen Airlines (MF), landed at Boeing’s completion center in Zhoushan, near Shanghai, after departing from Seattle and making refueling stops in Hawaii and Guam.

Suspension and Trade Tensions

Boeing deliveries to China were suspended in April 2025 after both countries imposed steep tariffs on each other's exports. The U.S., under President Donald Trump, implemented tariffs as high as 145% on Chinese goods, prompting China to retaliate with a 125% tariff on U.S. imports, including aircraft.

The halt affected both Boeing and Chinese airlines, with Boeing repatriating at least three 737 MAX aircraft from Zhoushan during the suspension. Despite speculation that these jets might be resold to other buyers, Boeing chose not to reallocate them, waiting instead for a resolution.

In late May, the U.S. and China agreed to a temporary 90-day easing of tariffs, reducing U.S. tariffs on Chinese imports to 30% and Chinese tariffs on U.S. goods to 10%. This truce enabled the resumption of Boeing deliveries to China, starting in June.

The resumption is seen as a positive signal for improving commercial relations and stability in the global aerospace sector. China is a crucial market for Boeing, representing about 10% of its commercial aircraft backlog.

Details of the First Delivery

• Aircraft Details: The MF 737 MAX that arrived in China this week had previously been ferried to Zhoushan in March but was returned to the U.S. in April when deliveries were halted.
• Flight Path: The journey from Seattle to Zhoushan took approximately 59 hours, with stops in Hawaii and Guam for refueling.
• Future Deliveries: Boeing expects to deliver 50 jets to Chinese carriers during the remainder of 2025, with 41 already in production or pre-built.

Broader Implications

The delivery coincides with ongoing trade talks between U.S. and Chinese representatives, who are meeting in London to discuss a broader trade agreement. The resumption of aircraft deliveries is viewed as an encouraging sign of de-escalation and a step toward restoring trust in the critical U.S.-China aviation relationship.

The restart of deliveries provides immediate relief to both Boeing and Chinese airlines, who had been adversely affected by the tariffs and delivery pause.

"The move is viewed as a positive signal of improving commercial relations and growing stability in the aerospace sector." — Reuters