BANGKOK/GUANGZHOU/TOKYO -- A bid by Chinese aircraft maker COMAC to purchase a majority stake in troubled flag carrier Lao Airlines has triggered a dispute over allowing China to expand its influence in Laos' transportation sector.
Aircraft manufacturer may be seeking to build track record for its planes

COMAC delivered a C909 regional aircraft to Lao Airlines earlier this year. (COMAC)
BANGKOK/GUANGZHOU/TOKYO -- A bid by Chinese aircraft maker COMAC to purchase a majority stake in troubled flag carrier Lao Airlines has triggered a dispute over allowing China to expand its influence in Laos' transportation sector.