China Southern Airlines has announced the cancellation of plans to sell ten Boeing 787-8 aircraft on the Shanghai United Assets and Equity Exchange (SUAEE). The decision comes amid ongoing trade tensions between China and the United States. The airline had earlier informed stakeholders of the proposed sale, aimed at addressing fleet composition and financial strategies.
In ten separate filings with the exchange, China Southern outlined that the sale projects have been temporarily halted. The suspension is set to last until at least May 12. However, the airline has not ruled out the possibility of resuming the sale if trading conditions improve. The aircraft involved in the sale are identified by registration numbers B-2725 through B-2727, delivered between May 2013 and June 2014, and powered by GE Aerospace GEnx engines.
China’s recent measures against acquiring new Boeing aircraft coincide with the escalating trade conflict with the US, which has seen increasing tariffs imposed by both nations. Without specifying reasons, China Southern issued a request for proposals (RFP) in November, potentially indicating interest in alternative sale options without detailing the motivation for suspending current processes.
As of March, China Southern Airlines’ fleet comprised 932 aircraft, including 41 Boeing 787s, and continued to introduce new aircraft while retiring others. The updates came amid reduced operations with its 787-8 models, as data showed a drop in their usage from a peak in January 2025.
The US’ imposition of tariffs has heightened trade tensions, which saw China’s stoppage in Boeing deliveries, adding pressure to the aviation industry. US President Donald Trump responded to China’s move on Truth Social, commenting on China’s decision to halt major deals involving Boeing aircraft.
Boeing’s records reflect a backlog of undelivered planes to Chinese airlines, with 130 unfilled orders, including models such as the 737 MAX and the 787-9. The manufacturer further tracks a number of inventoried planes initially intended for Chinese carriers, now facing delivery uncertainty.
