But the deal between Airbus and China is hardly surprising, says aviation expert Joris Melkert of TU Delft. On the contrary. According to Melkert, the Airbus deal had been in the pipeline for some time. “China is one of the biggest buyers and is seen as an important growth market,” Melkert says. ‘In addition, Airbus already has a Chinese assembly line.’
Now a second is being added, and the Chinese have also reconfirmed the order for 160 new aircraft. This means that there is a billion dollar deal for Airbus. “So it also fits the negotiation strategy,” he continues. “China agrees to buy planes from Airbus, but expects them to be built in their country.”
Important market
Melkert points out that China is an important sales market for Airbus, which sees potential in the country’s 1.4 billion population. Especially since the average inhabitant of China seems to become more and more prosperous. “That means they’re also flying more and more,” he says. “I believe a third of all Airbus planes built go to China these days.”
With the billion-dollar order, European Airbus takes a step forward in the competition with the American Boeing. Normally, China splits aircraft contracts between the two manufacturers, but as the relationship between the United States and China has cooled somewhat in recent years, Boeing is in the pilot light in China. Despite this, many Boeing aircraft are still being used and bought, “so it’s just a small step.”