Senior Airbus officials have enlisted the backing of diplomats from several European nations in their efforts to stall confirmation of a $2 billion order for Boeing aircraft due to be placed by Air China.
After months of negotiations with Boeing and Airbus, Air China decided in August that it wants at least 15 B777s, aviation sources in Beijing confirmed. But Airbus hasn't given up hope of convincing Air China to change its order; no contracts can be signed until the Chinese government gives the OK, a process that could take up to two months.
According to diplomats in Beijing, trade officials from the embassies of countries in the Airbus consortium - France, Germany, UK and Spain - are lobbying the Beijing government to pressure Air China into at least adjusting its order. They are hoping that recent tensions between China and the US over Taiwan might tip the scales in favour of Airbus.
Ultimately, Air China's preference for Boeing comes as no surprise. The airline already operates 50 Boeing aircraft in its 66-strong fleet. Sources say at this stage the deal is contained in a memorandum of understanding.
The deal is critical to both manufacturers. Last year the Chinese imposed a freeze on aircraft acquisition - aimed at concentrating resources on improving infrastructure and air safety standards - although some orders did slip through the net.
Clearance for Air China would signal an easing of restrictions and spark a spate of orders from other Chinese carriers, including China Eastern and China Southern. If the European diplomatic mission fails, Boeing will have its nose out in front.
Clearance for Air China would signal an easing of restrictions and spark a spate of orders from other Chinese carriers, including China Eastern and China Southern. If the European diplomatic mission fails, Boeing will have its nose out in front.
Source: Airline Business
