NEW DELHI: There is a global aircraft supply crunch. Indian airlines might find an unexpected opportunity. The escalating trade tensions between the United States and China could be beneficial. After US President Donald Trump imposed 145% tariffs, China reportedly advised its airlines to halt further Boeing aircraft purchases. This action potentially opens a window for Indian carriers struggling with fleet expansion.
Boeing Deliveries to China in Limbo
Chinese airlines were expecting the delivery of nearly 100 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft. This model is also part of the fleet expansion plans for India’s Akasa Air and Air India Express. Additionally, 11 Boeing 787 Dreamliners were due to be delivered to Chinese carriers. Some of these deliveries overlap with Air India’s larger order book.
Aircraft May Be Diverted to India
Aviation analysts suggest that aircraft originally intended for China might now be redirected to Indian operators. “This wouldn’t be the first time,” noted an industry expert. “Air India Express and Akasa had previously acquired ‘white tail’ aircraft. These are planes that were initially built for other buyers. They were later reassigned.”
AI Express took delivery of 25 such 737 MAX aircraft last year. The airline was in line to receive 25 more. With China scaling back Boeing orders, this number may increase. It could rise in the form of additional white tails. It might also come as newly built jets.
Idle Boeing Capacity May Benefit Akasa and AI Express
Boeing’s final assembly lines in Seattle that were previously earmarked for Chinese carriers might now have spare capacity. Deliveries to Indian carriers could be fast-tracked. Akasa and AI Express, in particular, have the financial muscle to absorb more aircraft quickly.
Due to delays from Boeing, Akasa has already been facing an imbalance—employing more pilots than needed for its current fleet. Extra aircraft deliveries could help correct that and improve efficiency.
Airbus May Be Next in Line for China
With China likely to lean more on Airbus amid its Boeing freeze, demand may shift to Airbus’ assembly lines. China could push for increased availability of the popular A320 family. This might further tighten global supply for Airbus customers elsewhere.
Airlines Taking What They Can Get
Both Akasa and AI Express have previously accepted aircraft with custom configurations. These include business class seating layouts ordered by the original customer. They did this simply to expand their fleet amid limited availability. Boeing’s production setbacks, driven by a series of disruptions, have made such adjustments commonplace among carriers racing to scale up.
