Boeing launches US$21 mln expansion project in Tianjin

Nov. 20, 2008 (China Knowledge) - Boeing Tianjin Composites Co, a joint venture between Boeing and China Aviation Industry Corp (AVIC), started the construction of its expansion plan on Nov. 19, according to sources.

The US$21 million expansion project was launched after Boeing acquired extra 40% stake in BHA Aero Composites Parts Co. Ltd. (BHA) from Hexcel in July to a controlling stake, and renamed BHA as Boeing Tianjin Composites Co.

BHA was previously a joint venture formed by Boeing, Hexcel and the former China Aviation Industry Corp. I (AVIC I), and supplied composite parts to domestic and foreign companies since its launch in 2002.

The expanded plant is scheduled to be completed early 2010 and start production by 2013. By then, the capacity of the plant is expected to be increased by about 60% and its employment will rise to about 1,000 from 600.

In addition, Boeing has won the right to use the lands near the venture in the Binhai New Area.