China Southern Airlines has deployed its ninth domestically developed C919 aircraft, marking a milestone in the expansion of the Chinese mainland's aviation capabilities. The jet completed its maiden commercial flight this week and will operate two daily round-trip services between Changsha and Beijing Daxing International Airport during the peak Lunar New Year travel period.
The new route configuration comes as passenger demand surges across Asia, with an estimated 480 million trips expected during this year's holiday migration. Aviation analysts note the C919's entry into high-frequency routes demonstrates growing confidence in China's homegrown aviation technology, following years of rigorous testing and certification.
"This deployment strategically positions the C919 where it's needed most – connecting major economic hubs during our busiest travel season," said a China Southern representative. The airline plans to gradually replace aging narrow-body aircraft with 100 additional C919s ordered from state-owned manufacturer COMAC by 2030.
The move aligns with broader efforts to strengthen supply chain resilience in Asian aviation markets. Industry observers highlight that over 1,200 orders for the C919 have been placed by carriers across the region, signaling a potential shift in the global commercial aircraft duopoly.
