COMAC aims C919 to fly to Southeast Asia by 2026
The Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (COMAC) aims to have the C919 operating commercial routes to Southeast Asia by 2026, according to statements by Yang Yang, deputy general manager of the company’s marketing center, who said the initial goal is to consolidate the C919’s operation within China and resolve any potential issues before venturing into other international markets.
International Certifications: The Bridge to the Global Market
To enter markets outside of China, the C919 needs international airworthiness certifications. Yang highlighted that the company expects to obtain European certification this year, a key step to validate the aircraft’s reliability and safety in a highly regulated market. Currently, the C919 operates exclusively in China, with airlines such as China Eastern Airlines, Air China, and China Southern Airlines.
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First aircraft destination outside mainland China
As of January 1, China Eastern Airlines added Hong Kong to its route network operated by the C919, becoming the aircraft’s first destination outside mainland China.
Although no negotiations with other airlines about flights to Southeast Asia or other markets have been confirmed, this first step underscores COMAC’s intention to build a bridge to international destinations.
Production Outlook
In 2024, COMAC delivered a total of 12 C919 units to three state-owned airlines, and it projects an annual production capacity of 150 aircraft within five years. This increase in production reinforces the company’s intention to become a relevant player in the commercial aviation market.
The C919 has been designed as a direct alternative to the Boeing 737 and Airbus A320, the leaders in the single-aisle aircraft segment. At a time when Boeing and Airbus are facing supply chain and labor challenges, COMAC seeks to leverage this situation to gain ground. The company is strategically positioned in Shanghai, a key hub for trade and aviation in Asia, which strengthens its distribution capabilities and response in emerging markets like Southeast Asia.
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