Boeing Jet Comes Back to US from China Amid Tariff Dispute
The decision to return the 737 Max to the United States remains unclear, with no explanation provided by either Boeing or China’s Xiamen Airlines.
On April 19, a Boeing aircraft intended for a Chinese airline landed back in the U.S. production facility amidst escalating tensions between the United States and China due to a tariff war.
The 737 Max jet, meant for China’s Xiamen Airlines, arrived at Seattle’s Boeing Field after making refueling stops in Guam and Hawaii during its journey back from Boeing’s completion center in Zhoushan. President Donald Trump’s imposition of increased tariffs on Chinese imports triggered retaliatory tariffs from China on U.S. goods.
Due to the new tariffs, the import duties could significantly impact a Chinese airline taking delivery of the Boeing jet, valued at approximately $55 million, according to aviation consultancy group IBA.
The return of the 737 Max to the United States raises questions about the decision-makers behind this move, as both Boeing and Xiamen Airlines have not provided any explanations.
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The 737 Max, Boeing’s top-selling model, has faced safety incidents following the fatal crashes in 2018 and 2019, including an incident in 2024 where a door panel ripped off an Alaska Airlines flight.
The disruption in new aircraft deliveries is evident due to the ongoing tariff war and import freeze on 737 Max jets. The uncertain tariff situation could leave aircraft deliveries in limbo, with some airlines considering deferring delivery rather than paying the duties.
Recent reports of China potentially halting further Boeing jet deliveries have impacted Boeing’s stock prices. Negotiations between the U.S. and China regarding tariffs continue with little certainty about the future tariffs imposed by either nation.
The president hinted at a potential deal with China to end the tariff war within the next few weeks.
Reuters contributed to this report.
