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China Eastern expands fleet with latest delivery of COMAC C919

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China Eastern expands fleet with latest delivery of COMAC C919
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Simple Flying | Simple Flying

Much of the commercial aviation news these days revolves around Airbus and Boeing, with Embraer also receiving some attention. However, the COMAC C919 from China remains relatively unknown. The aircraft is less visible at airports worldwide and is operated by only a few airlines with small fleets.

The narrative often compares the C919 to the Airbus and Boeing duopoly but lacks substantial data on its operational efficiency and reliability. This may be due to factors such as limited certification outside China, minimal service history, and no operators outside China. Simple Flying explored what is known about China Eastern Airlines' operations of the C919 to provide insights into this aircraft.

The story of the COMAC C919 began with the launch of the program in 2008 by COMAC (Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China), a state-owned entity based in Shanghai. The goal was to build a narrowbody airliner to challenge Airbus A320 and Boeing 737's market dominance. CBS News reported that "a major focus of this strategy centered on building an indigenous Chinese-built commercial aircraft designed to compete with the duopoly of western aerospace."

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Despite being considered an indigenous Chinese-built airliner, many components of the C919 are sourced from international companies like Collins Aerospace, Crane Aerospace, GE Aviation, Honeywell, and Safran.

The program faced delays; it was initially expected to roll out by 2014 and take its first flight by 2015. However, design issues pushed these dates back. The first C919 rolled out on November 2nd, 2015, but its maiden flight occurred on May 5th, 2017.

In September 2022, the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) certified the C919. The first delivery took place in December 2022 to China Eastern Airlines. At that time, COMAC stated: “The delivery and the upcoming route operation of the first C919 aircraft will provide more options to global airlines and customers...”

Since then, deliveries have been made to Air China, China Eastern Airlines, and China Southern Airlines. Eleven C919s were delivered in 2024 alone.

China Eastern Airlines has ordered 97 COMAC C919s. With ten already received, they expect another 87 before deliveries conclude.

Basic specifications for China Eastern’s standard COMAC C919s include a seating capacity for eight business class passengers and 156 economy seats. Cargo volume capacity stands at 45.2 m³ with a cargo weight capacity of 3,200 kg.

A unique feature of the C919 is its center seats designed slightly wider for passenger comfort in middle seats. Additionally, a cabin-based WiFi system allows passengers connectivity using personal devices.

Some refer to the COMAC C919 as a game-changer; however, initial reviews suggest it aligns closely with other single-aisle commercial airliners without introducing new technologies.

Wandering Scholar reviewed a flight on a C919 service with China Eastern Airlines stating: “This brief two-hour flight on China’s most advanced passenger jet felt like any other Airbus or Boeing made single-aisle aircraft..."

With further service experience and market expansion, COMAC aims to establish its presence within commercial aviation alongside existing giants Airbus and Boeing.

Organizations Included in this History
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