The U.S. Commerce Department has paused the sale of some American-made aviation equipment to China, including CFM International’s LEAP 1-C engine, which Chinese airplane maker Comac uses to power its narrowbody C919.
The New York Times first reported the export block on Wednesday, citing officials with knowledge of the matter. The department largely confirmed the newspaper’s reporting to Reuters, saying in a statement that it is reviewing “exports of strategic significance to China” and suspending export licenses for certain technology as that review continues.
A spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy in Washington, D.C., told Reuters that the U.S. is “abusing export controls” to suppress the country’s industry.
Comac has been working for years to develop commercial aircraft capable of competing with jets built by Boeing and Airbus. The C919, its second-ever model, relies on specialized components developed and produced by international companies, including Collins Aerospace, Honeywell, Liebherr, and Parker, in partnership with Chinese aerospace firms.
CFM, a joint venture between American GE Aerospace and French Safran Aircraft Engines, produces the aircraft’s powerplant, a modified version of the LEAP high-bypass turbofan. The LEAP 1-C is one of the few C919 components entirely manufactured outside China.
International Competition
China is developing a commercial jet engine of its own, but it will take years to refine and may not be ready for service until 2030 or later, leaving Comac dependent on CFM engines for now.
The administration of President Donald Trump is using export controls and other measures in an effort to rebalance global trade arrangements it maintains are unfair to American workers and industries. China specifically has been a target for the White House, receiving a 145 percent tariff before a 90-day pause was put in place.
The C919 is used by Chinese carriers almost exclusively within mainland China. Comac is working to get the aircraft certified by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which will be critical for its commercial prospects and long-term success. Comac is not currently pursuing certification for the C919 with the FAA.
