China's C919 single-aisle jet recently made its international debut at the Singapore Airshow, garnering significant attention and attracting numerous visitors along with hundreds of orders. Despite the positive reception, industry analysts caution that the aircraft still has significant hurdles to overcome before it can effectively compete with established market leaders Boeing and Airbus.
The Commercial Aircraft Corp. of China, also known as COMAC, has amassed over 1,000 orders for the C919, primarily from Chinese airlines. However, the aircraft lacks international certification, limiting its commercial operations to countries that recognize certifications from China's civil aviation regulator.
During the Singapore Airshow, which drew nearly 120,000 trade and public visitors, the C919 showcased its capabilities through fly-pasts, offering attendees a firsthand look at the jet in action. This marked the aircraft's first international appearance outside mainland China, following a previous display in Hong Kong in December.
Aviation analysts view the C919's international debut as a significant milestone in China's efforts to position itself as a key player in the commercial aircraft market alongside Airbus and Boeing. To achieve this goal, COMAC must secure international certification for the C919, which currently holds certification solely in China, where China Eastern Airlines operate four of these jets.
One critical aspect for COMAC to address is the establishment of a reliable distribution network and robust market support services to enhance the competitiveness of its aircraft. While the company has received substantial domestic orders, including a notable deal with Brunei-based GallopAir, securing international customers remains a challenge.
Supply chain issues, akin to those faced by Boeing and Airbus, pose additional challenges for COMAC. The C919, although designed in China, relies on foreign suppliers for much of its technology and components, such as its engine produced by CFM International, a joint venture between GE Aerospace and Safran Aircraft Engines.
Despite these challenges, COMAC benefits from a vast talent pool in China, which could facilitate the development of indigenous technology and components for its aircraft in the long term. By investing in research, development, training, and education, COMAC aims to reduce its reliance on Western technology and suppliers, potentially enhancing its competitiveness in the global market.
