$19 billion China order on Boeing’s books since 2007

Published 10:39 am Wednesday, January 19, 2011

A $19 billion Chinese order for Boeing jets grabbed headlines this morning as China’s President Hu Jintao visits U.S. President Barack Obama at the White House.

But the splashy deal, meant to emphasize an improved relations

hip between the two countries, was one Boeing posted to its backlog in 2007.

China’s Hu only gave final approval on the order this month, a Boeing spokeswoman said. But the 200-plane order was far along enough for Boeing to consider it a firm order in 2007.

Boeing is expected to begin deliveries this year and finish in 2013. The order is for 737s and Everett-built 777s.

“We value China’s support for our products and its confidence in Boeing,” said Jim Albaugh, president and CEO, Boeing Commercial Airplanes, in a statement. “With the outstanding support provided by the United States Government, this deal is a win-win for the Boeing-China partnership, which is approaching its 40th anniversary.”