Industry sources are confident of orders but surprised at the delay in official go-ahead
Regional jet builders are looking to step up co-operation with Chinese industry as they await government approval for long-awaited orders from domestic airlines.
Industry sources are expressing surprise at the length of time Beijing is taking to approve the deals, as the government has been encouraging Chinese airlines to acquire regional jets to improve passenger flow at major hubs.
The sources suggest the delays may stem from China's desire to secure larger industrial offset packages, prompting it to raise import duties and sales taxes on new aircraft.
Fairchild Dornier confirms it is continuing to discuss with China Aviation Industry II (AVIC II) company Harbin the possibility of producing its proposed 528JET 50-seater in China. Meanwhile it has awarded Harbin a contract to produce 328JET wing fairings. Hainan Airlines has signed an order for 21 more 328JETs to add to the 19 it already operates, but the deal awaits government approval.
Brazil's Embraer has taken initial steps to secure a Chinese partner that could lead to a production deal later this decade, possibly involving the 50-seat ERJ-145. The company is talking to AVIC I and II, says Embraer's chief representative for the region, Guan Dong Yuan.
The manufacturer is confident the Chinese Government will approve, in small batches, outstanding orders for ERJ-145s. Sichuan Airlines has ordered 10, while China Southern Airlines has 20 on order with 10 options.
Bombardier airline analyst Paul Chen says the Canadian manufacturer held exploratory talks earlier this year with Chinese authorities and companies on the issue of industrial co-operation.
Alliance Aircraft president and chief executive Earl Robinson says the company is on track to produce the 35-seat member of its proposed SL-100 regional jet family in China in partnership with Harbin Aircraft.
Recent design changes to theSL-100 include a 50mm increasein cabin height and a larger baggage hold.
Source: Flight International
