Ryanair CEO Michael O'Leary has indicated interest in purchasing aircraft from China's Comac to benefit from lower costs, amid rising tariffs creating uncertainty in the aviation market. In response to concerns raised by Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi regarding corporate espionage from the Chinese company, O'Leary stated he might cancel current Boeing orders if tariffs on American planes increase. The growing tension reflects a broader shift in the airline industry as Comac's planes, notably the C919, challenge the existing dominance of Airbus and Boeing.
However, O'Leary is said to have replied, threatening to cancel Boeing orders if tariffs raise prices.
O'Leary told travel industry outlet Skift, 'The Chinese are basically building a fucking A320. So if it was cheap enough - 10 or 20% cheaper than an Airbus aircraft - then we'd order it.'
Raja Krishnamoorthi said he was raising 'strong concerns' about the Ryanair boss's comments in a March interview.
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