At COMAC's Shanghai Design Institute, Zhao Chunling pauses beside scale models of China's C919 and C929 jets – symbols of both national pride and her own groundbreaking career. Appointed chief designer of the wide-body C929 program in 2023, Zhao became the first woman to lead a major aircraft development initiative in China's aviation history.
Her journey began in 1991, spanning critical roles in systems engineering, design, and test flights for earlier COMAC projects like the C909 and the now-operational C919 narrow-body jet. "Every role brought new challenges," Zhao reflects, "but my commitment to reaching new heights remains constant."
The C929 project marks China's boldest step yet into long-haul aviation markets dominated by Western manufacturers. Analysts note its potential to reshape global aerospace supply chains, while gender equality advocates highlight Zhao's leadership as a milestone for STEM fields across Asia.
As international interest grows in China's aviation ambitions, Zhao's team faces technical hurdles from composite material innovation to fuel efficiency targets. "This isn't just about building planes," she says. "It's about proving what focused collaboration – and diverse perspectives – can achieve."
