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Air India Plans to Buy Boeing Jets Rejected by Chinese Airlines
Air India is considering buying Boeing 737 MAX aircraft that were originally built for Chinese airlines. Due to ongoing trade tensions between China and the United States, many of these planes remain undelivered. Air India sees this as a chance to expand its fleet quickly without waiting for new aircraft production.
Why Are These Boeing Planes Available?
Over the past few years, U.S.-based Boeing has faced delays in delivering aircraft to China. The main reasons are safety concerns following two fatal crashes of the 737 MAX and growing political tensions between China and the U.S. While Chinese airlines placed orders for the planes, many of them have not accepted delivery.
This situation has left Boeing with a number of completed 737 MAX jets that are essentially in storage. With no clear path to deliver them to China, Boeing is now offering them to other international carriers.
Air India's Ongoing Fleet Expansion
Under the ownership of Tata Group, Air India is working on a major transformation plan. One of its top goals is to modernize and grow its fleet to meet the increasing demand for both domestic and international travel.
As part of this plan, Air India has already taken delivery of 41 Boeing 737 MAX jets that were originally meant for Chinese carriers. These planes were quickly refurbished and repainted with Air India's branding. They have been put into service under Air India Express, the airline’s low-cost arm.
Now, Air India is in talks with Boeing to take even more of these aircraft, which would help the airline expand faster than waiting for new jets to be manufactured.
Other Airlines Are Also Interested
Air India is not alone in showing interest in these ready-to-fly aircraft. Malaysia Aviation Group is also reportedly in discussions with Boeing to take some of the same 737 MAX jets. Because these aircraft are already built and waiting, airlines can save time on delivery and start using them much sooner than ordering brand-new ones.
A Strategic Opportunity for Boeing and Buyers
This situation works well for both Boeing and the buying airlines. For Boeing, it allows the company to avoid keeping unsold inventory on the ground. For airlines like Air India, it provides a fast, cost-effective way to upgrade their fleets.
The aircraft being offered are practically new and require only minor updates to meet the needs of their new owners. This is especially helpful for growing airlines that want to expand quickly to capture more market share.
