In a significant milestone for China’s aviation industry, the Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (COMAC) delivered its domestically produced C919 passenger jets to two major airlines—Air China and China Southern Airlines—during a ceremony in Shanghai on Wednesday.
The C919, a narrow-body jet designed to compete with the Airbus A320 and Boeing 737 families, represents China’s ambition to become a key player in the global aerospace market. The delivery to Air China and China Southern Airlines marks a pivotal step in the country’s efforts to reduce reliance on foreign aircraft manufacturers.
“The successful delivery of the C919 to our esteemed airlines signifies a new era in China’s commercial aviation,” said a COMAC spokesperson. “We are proud to contribute to the modernization of the country’s fleet with our homegrown technology.”
Both Air China and China Southern Airlines have expressed confidence in the C919’s performance and are preparing to incorporate the new aircraft into their domestic and regional routes. The airlines anticipate that the addition of the C919 fleet will enhance operational efficiency and passenger experience.
The delivery ceremony underscores China’s commitment to advancing its aerospace capabilities and signals a growing competitiveness in the global aviation industry. As the C919 begins commercial operations, it is expected to play a significant role in the expanding air travel market across Asia and beyond.
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COMAC makes deliveries of C919s to two major Chinese airlines
cgtn.com