Chinese aerospace companies want to get on board the manufacturing team for Boeing's 7E7, says a report in this week's Flight International.
Asian participation in the 7E7 will be strong, with Japanese manufacturers building 35% of the aircraft and companies in Taiwan, Malaysia and Korea also keen to join in.
Five Chinese companies are preparing to bid for work on the 7E7 in an effort to make up for the lack of the country's participation in the 777 and offset the loss of work from the end of 757 production, says Flight. China Aviation Industries Corp I (AVIC I) wants work for its subsidiaries in Chengdu, Shenyang and Xian, while AVIC II is looking for work for its Harbin unit.
BHA Aero Composite, based in Tianjin, which supplies parts for interiors and secondary structures on several aircraft, is also seeking a role on the 7E7. It is a joint venture between AVIC I, Boeing and Hexcel.
In November, Boeing hosted a supplier conference in Beijing to discuss opportunities in the 7E7 programme with potential Asian suppliers. A total of 25 companies from around the region attended.
The 7E7 work share won by Asian manufacturers is expected to come close to 50% of the aircraft once all suppliers are selected.
MARK PILLING
Source: Flight Daily News
