Jakarta plans to revive a plane order to seek favour with Trump and boost US ties despite flag carrier Garuda’s financial woes
The accord points to the intertwined political and economic interests whenever Trump negotiates with foreign leaders. The US president has previously announced aircraft purchases while visiting countries including Qatar, or when he has hammered out trade agreements with the likes of Vietnam or the UK.
The dilemma for Boeing is how to restore or expand the existing 49-jet Max order without leaving Garuda in a financial and strategic bind.
The airline is already having trouble keeping its existing fleet airworthy, with at least 15 jets grounded as recently as May as it struggles to make maintenance payments.
Indonesia’s Prabowo reaches ‘landmark deal’ with Trump, saying trade talks will continue
