Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (COMAC) delivered the first C919 to its launch customer, China Eastern Airlines, on December 9, 2022. The aircraft, designed and built to compete with the famous Boeing 737 MAX and Airbus A320neo aircraft families, is now the second Chinese-made jet on the market after the ARJ21.
The aircraft, registered B-919A, was flying between the two airports in Shanghai, i.e. from Pudong International Airport (PVG) to Hongqiao International Airport (SHA). The C919 is scheduled to enter commercial service in 2023.
The COMAC C919 is intended to be a direct competitor to the Boeing 737 and Airbus A320 models. According to the technical specifications, the new Chinese plane can carry between 158 and 192 passengers, with a flight range between 4.075 and 5.555 kilometers.
The propulsion of the new COMAC is provided by CFM International LEAP engines. The C919 comes equipped with LEAP -1C, while the 737 MAX has -1B and the A320neos operates with -1A. Additionally, Airbus A320neo customers can opt for the Pratt & Whitney PW1100G family of engines. Internationally, the COMAC C919 is viewed with reluctance by potential customers, while the Airbus and Boeing models are enjoying real success.
But in ASIA, and especially in China, the C919 will enter the fleets of several airlines. China Eastern Airlines ordered five units of the C919 in 2010. After the delivery of the first aircraft, the company expects to receive the remaining four during 2023. According to local media reports, the airline will first test the operational safety, reliability and security of the aircraft, standard procedures before commercial flights.