Boeing’s Forecast for RJs in China Off

Even as China restricts the development of new carriers, Boeing forecasts it will need 3,400 new aircraft, valued at $340 billion in the next 20 years, including just 330 regional jets, hard to believe given Mesa’s investment in the market and its projections for its partnership with Shenzhen Airlines – KunPeng Airlines. The airline is on track to have 20 aircraft in place by the 2008 Olympics. Mesa CEO Jonathan Ornstein noted that, with its partner, Shenzeng Airlines the program could represent a demand for 100 aircraft. “It is interesting to note that in a country of 1.4 billion people, only 70 regional jets are currently in operation, less than that at United’s hub operation in Chicago,” he said, adding the joint venture is still on track for launch in mid- to late September.