In a shocking turn of events, China Southern Airlines has announced the sale of its entire fleet of Boeing 787-8 Dreamliners, a move that has sent ripples through the commercial aviation industry. This unexpected decision, revealed in a press statement, involves the disposal of 10 aircraft and two General Electric engines, marking a significant shift for a carrier historically aligned with Boeing.
The airline is conducting the sale via open bidding, starting at a staggering $550 million—far below the aircraft’s original price of approximately $250 million each. Analysts are left scrambling for answers, speculating whether this bold maneuver signals China Southern’s transition away from Boeing and a potential embrace of Airbus. The implications are profound, especially as China’s air travel demand soars, with over 700 million passenger trips recorded in 2024 alone.
China Southern’s decision raises eyebrows, especially given the 787-8’s relatively young age, having been introduced to its fleet just a decade ago. The aircraft’s capacity constraints and lower cargo volume compared to competitors like the Airbus A350-900 are likely driving this strategic pivot. The airline’s management appears to be prioritizing operational efficiency and revenue potential amid a booming market.
This move comes at a critical juncture as China Southern prepares to meet rising passenger demand and expand its global footprint. With geopolitical tensions escalating, the airline may also be seeking to reduce its reliance on American-made aircraft. Industry experts are now closely monitoring potential replacements, including the Airbus A350-900 or even domestic options like the upcoming COMAC C929.
As the aviation world watches closely, the stakes are high for both China Southern and Boeing. The latter cannot afford to lose such a significant customer, and the pressure is mounting for Boeing to innovate and retain its foothold in the competitive landscape. The future of commercial aviation is on the brink of a dramatic shift, and all eyes are on China Southern’s next move.