China’s homegrown large passenger aircraft, the C919, has officially launched its fifth regular commercial route, connecting Beijing with Xi’an, the capital of northwest China’s Shaanxi Province. Operated by China Eastern Airlines (CEA), this marks another significant milestone in China’s aviation industry.
On Monday, Flight MU2113, carrying 139 passengers, took off from Xi’an Xianyang International Airport at 4 p.m., heading to Beijing. The return flight departed from Beijing at 8:00 p.m. on the same day, with a flight duration of approximately 2.5 hours.
Developed by the Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China, Ltd. (COMAC), the C919 is a two-engine narrow-body airliner designed to accommodate between 158 to 192 passengers and boasts a flight range of 4,075 to 5,555 kilometers.
The aircraft adopts cutting-edge aerodynamic design, advanced propulsion systems, and materials, featuring lower carbon emissions and higher fuel efficiency. The C919 made its international debut at the Singapore Airshow in February.
As China’s first self-developed large passenger jet, the expanding operation of the C919 signifies the nation’s growing presence in the international aviation market and its strides toward aviation self-sufficiency.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
