China
China Expands Aerospace Ambitions in Southeast Asia with Laos Partnership: Eyes Set on C919 and ARJ21 Aircraft Deals
China considers pathway for C919 entry into Southeast Asia, focusing on landlocked Laos
China expressed gratitude for Laos' keenness and willingness to collaborate on Chinese commercial airplanes, though it did not specifically mention the C919 or ARJ21 models.
During his tour of Southeast Asia, China's Premier Li Qiang actively promoted the nation's high-tech and advanced manufacturing capabilities, which has sparked interest from Laos in China’s commercial airplanes.
In a shared statement released on Saturday with China’s neighboring Southeast Asian country, the nations consented to enhance collaboration through China’s Belt and Road Initiative and Laos' plan to transform from being "landlocked to land-linked."
The statement noted that China values Laos' enthusiasm and willingness to collaborate on Chinese commercial airplanes, and is open to Laotian aviation companies adopting these aircraft.
"China is also prepared to enhance collaboration with Laos by offering additional technical support for the operation of Chinese commercial planes and expanding the customer service network."
The statement did not mention the specific models, such as the narrowbody C919 passenger jet or the regional ARJ21, which are both manufactured by the state-owned Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (Comac).
Experts indicated on Monday that airlines in Southeast Asia are expected to purchase planes from Comac to boost broader economic ties, noting that the area's numerous low-cost carriers might choose the C919 or ARJ21 models if the costs are favorable.
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