With FAA humbled by Boeing crashes, China gets closer to Europe

Chinese and European aviation regulators are nearing a landmark deal that could make it easier for planes to be certified and sold in each other’s markets, according to people familiar with the matter. The CAAC and EASA are planning to sign the agreement as soon as May 20, the people said. The timing would follow a 2-day conference CAAC is hosting in Beijing this week with global regulators, manufacturers and carriers. CAAC's administrator confirmed there are plans for an agreement soon. The accord would come after years of talks and represent a major milestone for China at a time the FAA is reeling from criticism it certified Boeing Co.’s 737 Max despite design flaws. China has gained clout as an aviation regulator after it became the first major nation to ground the Max in the wake of the March 10 Ethiopian Airlines disaster. <br/>