Boeing secures significant order from Uzbekistan amid potential China deal
- Boeing announced an order from Uzbekistan Airways for up to 22 787 Dreamliners.
- U.S. officials signaled a potential deal with China, which would be its first in years.
- The agreements are crucial for Boeing's recovery and job support in the U.S.
In a notable development for the U.S. aerospace industry, Boeing announced a substantial order from Uzbekistan Airways on September 23, 2025. The flag carrier of Uzbekistan intends to purchase up to 22 Boeing 787 Dreamliners, which includes a firm order for 14 aircraft and options for an additional eight planes. This procurement aims to enhance the airline's international route capabilities, particularly to points in the United States. Significantly, Boeing stated that this deal would contribute to supporting nearly 35,000 jobs in the U.S., reflecting the broader economic implications of such transactions. Alongside this order announcement, U.S. officials expressed optimism for an impending aircraft deal with China, potentially marking the first sale to the country in years. David Perdue, the U.S. ambassador to China, indicated that negotiations with Chinese companies are nearing their conclusion, implying that an official agreement may be in the works soon. These discussions are particularly pertinent given the historical context—Boeing's presence in China has faced severe challenges since the grounding of the 737 Max in 2019, following two catastrophic accidents. Perdue's comments emerged during a diplomatic visit to China accompanied by U.S. lawmakers, emphasizing the strategic importance of reviving the U.S.-China aviation market. While specific details about the expected deal were not disclosed, there is a sense of urgency and significance attached to restoring Boeing's business ties with the country. This is especially critical as Boeing seeks to recover from its recent challenges and controversies, including legal issues surrounding the 737 Max incidents and production difficulties stemming from worker strikes. Boeing's stock price reacted positively to the Uzbekistan order, rising by 2% on the day of the announcement, contributing to a modest annual gain of 22.2%. Additionally, President Donald Trump highlighted the Uzbekistan deal, suggesting its estimated value exceeds $8 billion, albeit with a mix-up regarding the total number of aircraft mentioned. Nevertheless, the recent activities underscore the potential for renewed growth for Boeing as it navigates a complex landscape filled with both opportunity and previous challenges in international aviation markets.