Comac targets EU certification for c919; eyes Southeast Asian flights by 2026

Industry analysts note that COMAC’s ambitions extend beyond Western certifications. Reports suggest that the C919 could operate in Southeast Asia without European or US certifications if it meets individual countries' regulatory standards. Countries such as Indonesia, Cambodia, and Laos may approve the aircraft without requiring additional validation from Western authorities.

China Eastern and China Southern’s networks in Southeast Asia offer a platform for deploying the C919. These airlines have established routes to destinations like Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, and Jakarta.

In 2024, Indonesia’s TransNusa became the first overseas airline to operate a Chinese-made Comac ARJ21 aircraft between Manado and Guangzhou. The airline is reportedly evaluating the C919 for future use.

In October 2024, COMAC opened offices in Hong Kong and Singapore to strengthen its market presence overseas. The Singapore office aims to facilitate communication with regional stakeholders.

Although full certification from Western aviation authorities is pending for the C919, progress is underway. In August 2024, EASA completed its fourth round of assessments—a critical step toward regulatory compliance—with feedback indicating that flight tests could begin as early as 2025.

Observers believe that debuting on the Shanghai-Hong Kong route was strategic for enhancing visibility outside mainland China. A market analyst noted: "Hong Kong is a natural choice for COMAC’s first international destination."

With growing domestic demand and an increasing international presence, COMAC's path toward establishing the C919 globally seems achievable. As more airlines consider adding it to their fleets in Southeast Asia, diversification of the single-aisle market may accelerate.