Aircraft manufacturer Boeing has delivered its 2,000 aircraft to China, with the milestone B737 Max going to Xiamen Airlines.
Aircraft growth has accelerated considerably in the country in recent years – Boeing took four decades to deliver its first 1,000 aircraft to China, with the second milestone being achieved just five years later.
The manufacturer said that one in four of its commercial jets now goes to a Chinese operator, either through direct purchase or lease.
The milestone aircraft is the eighth B737 Max to be delivered to Xiamen Airlines, having received the first earlier this year.
The 2,000th aircraft features a special logo to commemorate the achievement.
There are over 3,000 jetliners flying in China, across over 30 commercial customers. Boeing forecasts that the country will need 7,690 new aircraft by 2038, valued at $1.2 trillion.
Commenting on the news Che Shanglun, chairman of Xiamen Airlines said:
“We’re pleased to be a part of this historic delivery for Boeing and China. In our 34-year history of operations, Xiamen Airlines has steadily grown, doubling our fleet size over the past five years and achieving profits for 31 years in a row.
“Throughout that time, Boeing has been a valued partner in our growth and expansion by providing safe and reliable airplanes.”
Last month Boeing celebrated the delivery of its 787th Dreamliner aircraft worldwide, to Chinese carrier China Southern.
