China's COMAC Eyes Southeast Asian Expansion for C919 Jet by 2026

China’s state-owned aircraft manufacturer, COMAC, plans to expand its C919 passenger jet operations to Southeast Asia by 2026, marking its first move beyond the domestic market. The company is also seeking European certification for the C919, potentially as early as this year, while focusing on resolving operational issues through increased domestic deployment. Currently operated by China Eastern Airlines, Air China, and China Southern Airlines, the C919 recently made its first international trip to Hong Kong. Positioned as a competitor to the Boeing 737 and Airbus A320, the jet requires international airworthiness certification to enter the global market. COMAC delivered 12 C919 aircraft in 2024 and aims to scale production to 150 units annually within five years, as it targets Southeast Asia before tackling Western markets.
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