Trump vs. China's Dreamliner Is This Just Plane Wrong?

Trump's Focus on China's C919: A Symbol of Power and a Point of Contention

The C919, China's ambitious attempt to break into the global passenger jet market, has become a focal point in the ongoing trade and technological tensions between the United States and China. This aircraft, viewed by Beijing as a symbol of its growing technological prowess, has drawn specific scrutiny, particularly concerning the involvement of American companies like General Electric (GE).

GE's Early Investment: A Strategic Partnership

Rewind to the early days of the Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (COMAC), the manufacturer of the C919. Even when the aircraft was merely a "distant dream," GE strategically forged a partnership with the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC). It's crucial to note that AVIC is a leading Chinese defense contractor, deeply involved in the production of China's most advanced bombers and stealth fighter jets. Their production hub resides in Xi'an, the heart of China's military aircraft manufacturing.

This partnership involved GE sharing its cutting-edge commercial avionics with AVIC for the C919. This wasn't just any system; it was the same state-of-the-art technology GE had recently developed for Boeing's 787 Dreamliner jet. This decision, while seemingly beneficial at the time, now faces increased examination.

The Promise of American Jobs and Exports

In 2011, GE publicly stated that its collaboration with AVIC on the C919 project was projected to generate $300 million in exports from states like Michigan, Ohio, and Florida. Moreover, it was anticipated to support 300 American jobs. GE emphasized that they had briefed the Commerce, Defense, and State Departments on the intricacies of the agreement. Their rationale was simple: to participate in the potential commercial success of the C919 rather than "sit on the sidelines."

As John Rice, GE's then vice chairman, stated, "We can participate in that or sit on the sidelines — we’re not about sitting on the sidelines. This venture is a strategic move that we made after some thought and consideration, with a company we know."

Key Takeaways:

• C919: China's symbol of aviation ambition.
• GE & AVIC Partnership: Involved sharing advanced avionics technology.
• Economic Impact: GE projected significant exports and job creation in the US.
• Strategic Considerations: GE aimed to be a key player in the C919's success.

The Broader Implications

The story of GE's involvement with the C919 is more than just a business deal. It highlights the complex interplay between economic opportunity, national security concerns, and technological competition. As the US and China continue to navigate their relationship, collaborations like this will undoubtedly face increased scrutiny and potentially reshape the landscape of international business and technological cooperation. The C919, therefore, stands not just as an aircraft, but as a powerful symbol of China's ambitions and the intricate challenges facing the globalized world.

Tags: GE, COMAC, C919, AVIC, China aviation, Boeing 787, Avionics, US jobs, GE AVIC, China defense

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/05/30/business/china-comac-c919-trump.html