China Southern Airlines has achieved a significant milestone in the aviation industry, launching the first commercial flight of its domestically built C919 passenger jet. On Thursday, Flight CZ3539, fully booked with passengers, departed from Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport, heading towards Shanghai Hongqiao Airport. This event marks a pivotal moment as the C919, developed by the Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (COMAC), officially enters commercial service.
The C919’s debut with China Southern Airlines is a testament to the aircraft’s growing presence in China’s aviation landscape. Notably, all three of China’s major airlines – China Southern, Air China, and China Eastern Airlines – are now flying the C919, emphasizing the aircraft’s crucial role in shaping the future of Chinese aviation.
This commitment to the C919 is further reinforced by China Southern Airlines’ historic agreement with COMAC in April 2023, where they pledged to purchase 100 C919 aircraft. This substantial investment signifies China Southern Airlines’ confidence in the C919’s capabilities to rival global aviation giants.
The C919’s journey to commercial success began in May 2023 with China Eastern Airlines, the launch customer, operating seven C919s and reporting positive performance. Air China and China Southern Airlines also received their first C919 aircraft in late August, bolstering the aircraft’s presence in the commercial aviation market.
With nine C919 planes delivered to date, COMAC continues to demonstrate the aircraft’s growing significance in China’s aviation sector. The increasing number of airlines adopting the C919 signifies China’s progress in reducing its reliance on foreign aircraft manufacturers.
As the C919 soars across China, it is expected to play a transformative role in the nation’s aviation sector. Future plans include ramped-up production and wider adoption, paving the way for a new era in Chinese aviation. The C919’s success represents a significant step towards China’s ambition to become a global leader in aircraft manufacturing.
