(NewsNation) — Qatar Airways is reportedly set to announce the purchase of at least 150 Boeing aircraft, the latest in President Donald Trump’s blitz of business dealings during this week’s trip to the Middle East.
South Carolina could see a major job spike at its Boeing manufacturing plant in North Charleston if the reported $100 billion deal is finalized.
The plant, where Boeing makes most of its 787 Dreamliner planes, currently employs more than 8,000. Local leaders told NewsNation a deal with Qatar could mean more money flowing into North Charleston.
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Mayor Reggie Burgess said while he’s not sure exactly how many jobs the deal could bring, his city will “fill them all.”
“We’re talking about thousands and thousands of jobs,” he added.
Local business owners told NewsNation a potential deal would be a game-changer.
“Most of our business, our contractors, they are truck drivers, they’re just working-class people. And if it can bring more of those in here, then it would definitely, definitely improve everything for us,” said Li Farmer, a restaurant manager in North Charleston.
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Korean Air recently agreed to purchase up to 50 Boeing planes. The 787s will also be assembled in North Charleston.
It’s a big boost for Boeing after a tough year, production problems and worker strikes.
Though the company has seen some layoffs in recent months, Boeing announced a plan in December to invest $1 billion in North Charleston’s plant, with a goal of adding 500 jobs in the next five years.
