A senior US lawmaker has warned European budget airline Ryanair against moving forward with a potential purchase of Chinese made aircraft citing growing concerns over national security supply chain risks and geopolitical tensions between China and Western nations
The caution comes as Ryanair explores options to expand and modernize its fleet in the coming years The airline which has long relied on Boeing aircraft is reportedly considering additional suppliers including China’s state owned COMAC which manufactures the C919 narrowbody jet
In a public statement the lawmaker emphasized that any large scale commercial deal involving Chinese aerospace firms could raise red flags for both European and American authorities He pointed to ongoing concerns about the transparency of Chinese companies as well as the close ties between China’s aviation sector and the state
The US lawmaker noted that cooperation with Chinese aviation firms could have unintended consequences especially in a time of increasing technological rivalry and regulatory scrutiny While Ryanair has not confirmed any concrete plans to acquire Chinese aircraft the issue has already drawn attention in Washington and Brussels
According to aviation analysts Ryanair is seeking ways to lower costs and diversify its supplier base as it prepares for long term growth in European travel demand However the potential entry of COMAC aircraft into the European market faces several hurdles including certification from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency and skepticism about performance and reliability
Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary has previously stated that the airline is open to considering new aircraft models if they meet safety efficiency and cost requirements Although the airline has a strong relationship with Boeing ongoing delays and supply chain issues have pushed Ryanair to look at other manufacturers
Industry experts say that any move to purchase Chinese planes would be closely watched by regulators investors and government officials especially given the broader context of trade tensions export controls and sanctions targeting critical technologies
The lawmaker concluded by saying that security should not be compromised in the pursuit of lower costs and urged Ryanair and other airlines to consider the wider implications of procurement decisions involving strategic sectors
