China Intensifies Its Push to Take COMAC Aircraft to International Markets

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3 months ago

China is doubling down on its efforts to position its domestically manufactured aircraft, such as the COMAC C909 and C919, in international markets. This article explores the strategic moves in Vietnam, a key market for the state-owned COMAC, which aims to compete with industry giants like Airbus and Boeing.

COMAC’s Entry into Vietnam

Over the past year, COMAC has adopted a more deliberate marketing strategy, working closely with regulators and airlines. A prominent example is the attempt to introduce C909 aircraft in Vietnam, where VietJet, the country’s largest low-cost carrier, planned to start leasing two of these aircraft on January 15 for domestic routes, to be operated by crew from China’s Chengdu Airlines. However, the Vietnamese aviation regulator has not yet cleared the deal, as it is wary of giving the green light to an aircraft certified only by China and Indonesia.

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Features of the COMAC C909

The C909, formerly known as ARJ21, is a regional airliner seating up to 90 passengers that began commercial operation in 2016. Although it does not have the profile of the C919, a more advanced narrow-body aircraft, the C909 has achieved some traction, with more than 160 units delivered to date.

Financial Offers and Strategic Goals

According to sources, COMAC presented VietJet with financial terms that were “too good to resist,” reflecting an aggressive strategy to attract new customers. VietJet, which currently operates a fleet of approximately 100 Airbus aircraft and has orders for 200 Boeing 737 MAX jets, could use the C909 planes to service routes where larger aircraft cannot operate, such as the tourist archipelago of Con Dao.

Diplomatic Efforts and Training

China has launched a “charm offensive” to strengthen ties with Vietnam and facilitate approval of the C909. Additionally, training sessions were organized in Shanghai to familiarize Vietnamese personnel with the aircraft’s operational and maintenance standards. Following a call between the leaders of both countries, Vietnam announced it was working to remove regulatory barriers.

Global Expansion and Certification Challenges

On the international stage, COMAC has increased its visibility by participating in events like the Singapore Airshow and securing agreements with airlines such as GallopAir in Brunei, which has ordered 15 C909 and 15 C919 aircraft. However, the lack of certification from Western regulators remains a critical challenge for the widespread acceptance of these planes.

As COMAC pursues international certifications, Vietnam represents a strategic step in strengthening its presence in Southeast Asia, one of the world’s fastest-growing aviation markets. VietJet’s adoption of COMAC aircraft could pave the way for greater collaboration and the eventual deployment of the advanced C919 on international routes.