Boeing and Airbus on Alert as China's C919 Jet Prepares for Major Deliveries

Boeing and Airbus Challenge

Boeing and Airbus are currently facing competition as China’s C919 passenger jet, a project of Comac, moves toward its first deliveries. On Wednesday, the C919 is expected to be handed over to Air China and China Southern Airlines, marking a notable production milestone that could reshape the aviation landscape.

Delivery Milestone

The C919 is set for its first deliveries to three major airlines, indicating Comac’s ability to deliver under pressure.

• Air China and China Southern Airlines each ordered 100 C919 jets, showing confidence in the aircraft.
• Shanghai-based China Eastern Airlines had previously been the only customer for the C919.
• This move reflects Comac’s progress in addressing production challenges.

Production Capacity and Market Response

Li Hanming, an aviation analyst based in the US, emphasizes that an expansion in production is critical amidst increasing order backlogs. Failure to ramp up output could lead to order cancellations.

1. Comac is optimistic about receiving EU certification.
2. Construction of a second assembly line in Shanghai is underway.
3. Air China’s first C919 will have a unique registration code B-919X.

Competition with Western Planemakers

Current statistics reveal a significant gap between Comac’s production output and that of Airbus and Boeing.

• Airbus produced 229 A320neo aircraft by mid-year.
• Boeing delivered 137 units of the 737 within the same timeframe.

Final Thoughts

As Comac prepares to deliver C919 jets, the challenges ahead include securing a steady supply of components from Western producers, particularly engines from CFM International. How well the company can maneuver these challenges will determine its future in the competitive aviation market.