China Aims for Comac C919 EASA Certification by 2025

Chinese aviation authorities are optimistic about securing European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) certification for the Comac C919 narrowbody airliner by 2025, a move that could pave the way for the aircraft’s entry into international markets.

Marking the first anniversary of its commercial operation, the C919 celebrated the delivery of its sixth aircraft to China Eastern Airlines, a significant milestone for the ambitious aircraft program.

Gu Xin, director of the Civil Aviation Administration of China’s airworthiness certification center, expressed confidence in achieving EASA certification by 2025, emphasizing the collaborative efforts required from both sides. The accelerated timeline aligns with China’s eagerness to expand the C919’s presence globally.

Despite the optimistic outlook, EASA has yet to confirm the feasibility of the 2025 certification goal. Previously, EASA had indicated that China had requested certification by 2026, highlighting the complexities involved in the certification process for a relatively new aircraft like the C919.

China Eastern Airlines, the pioneer in operating the C919 commercially, has already witnessed significant success with the aircraft, logging over 2,181 flights and carrying more than 276,000 passengers. With routes connecting major cities like Shanghai, Beijing, Chengdu, and Xi’an, the C919 has proven its reliability and performance in domestic operations.

The delivery of the sixth C919 marks another milestone in China Eastern’s expansion plans, with the airline expecting to receive four more aircraft by the end of 2024 as part of its 100-aircraft order placed in September 2023.

Comac has secured a total of 330 firm orders for the C919, with major Chinese carriers like Air China, China Eastern, and China Southern Airlines leading the way. The widespread adoption of the C919 underscores its potential to revolutionize the commercial aviation landscape in China and beyond.

As Comac and Chinese aviation authorities continue to push for international certification, the C919’s journey towards becoming a global player in the commercial aircraft market promises to be a significant development in the aviation industry. Stay tuned for further updates as efforts to secure EASA certification progress towards the anticipated target of 2025.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, aviationweek.com