The US Department of Commerce has intensified restrictions on the export of aircraft parts to China, affecting the operations of Chinese aircraft manufacturer COMAC. Recently, licensing processes for shipments to China have been slowed, as the US seeks to leverage its aviation supply chain influence amid ongoing trade negotiations.
One measure under consideration involves easier restrictions on shipments of key components like landing gear, with reports indicating a draft licensing requirement for US-made hydraulic fluids used in aviation. China has long sought spare parts for its recent aircraft acquisitions, including the 200 Boeing aircraft ordered earlier this year. However, US officials remain hesitant to guarantee the provision of such spare parts, citing national security and trade concerns.
The restrictions also impact engine exports, particularly the CFM International LEAP-1C engines powering the C919 and the General Electric CF34-10A engines on the C909. The US suspended export licenses for these engines and related equipment in May 2025, but lifted the suspension in July following a bilateral agreement in London.
Despite these challenges, COMAC delivered 15 C919s in 2025—short of its original target of 75 units—due to workforce shortages and delays from foreign suppliers. Data indicates that in the first nine months of 2026, the company delivered 11 C919 aircraft to Chinese airlines including Air China, China Eastern Airlines, and China Southern Airlines, as well as six C909 aircraft, including a C909 dedicated to Deer Jet Shanghai.
