Chinese C919 Aircraft Undertakes High Plateau Testing in Lhasa

The C919, a domestically produced passenger jet, successfully landed at Lhasa Gonggar International Airport in the Xizang Autonomous Region on Thursday, marking a significant step in its test flight program. This arrival from Chengdu, after a flight lasting just over two hours, paves the way for a series of high-altitude tests aimed at validating the aircraft’s systems for operation in demanding plateau environments.

Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (CACC), the manufacturer of the C919, announced that the aircraft will undergo rigorous evaluations of its environmental control, avionics, and power devices, alongside adaptability checks for high plateau airports. These tests are crucial for ensuring the C919 can handle routes at high altitudes and aid in the development of future aircraft models tailored for similar conditions.

Situated in the Yarlung Tsangpo River valley at an altitude of 3,569 meters, Lhasa Gonggar International Airport’s challenging meteorological and geographical conditions make it an ideal location for these tests.

The C919, which features a seating capacity of 158 to 192 and a range between 4,075 and 5,555 kilometers, has already seen significant operational use. Since entering commercial service on May 28, 2023, the aircraft has accumulated over 10,000 flight hours, completed more than 3,700 commercial flights, and carried upwards of 500,000 passengers. With nine C919 jets currently in service with major carriers like China Eastern Airlines, Air China, and China Southern Airlines, this high plateau test marks another milestone in the aircraft’s robust testing and operational regimen.

Related news: https://airguide.info/?s=C919

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ecns.cn