Air China, the country's flag carrier, and China Southern Airlines received their first C919 aircraft on Wednesday. A joint delivery ceremony was held in Shanghai, where the Commercial Aircraft Corp of China, or COMAC, the manufacturer of the C919, is headquartered.
The deliveries mark a significant step for the two State-owned carriers in supporting China's aviation manufacturing industry and promoting mutual growth with the country's self-developed large passenger aircraft manufacturing sector, industry insiders said.
Air China, for example, boasts the longest history of development and operation in China's civil aviation sector. It ranks at the forefront of the international aviation market in terms of fleet size, global routes and annual passenger transport volume.
The company maintains one of the most outstanding safety operation records and has the most internationally influential brand in the Chinese civil aviation industry.
Every decision it makes regarding aircraft selection attracts attention and bears significance, experts said.
During the ceremony, COMAC presented Air China and China Southern Airlines with the aircraft sales certificates and commemorative delivery keys. Also, the Civil Aviation Administration of China issued nationality registration certificates, standard airworthiness certificates and radio station licenses to both carriers.
Air China's first C919 aircraft, which is painted with China's national flag, features eight seats in business class and 150 seats in economy. This is currently the most spacious cabin layout known for the C919.
China Southern Airlines selected the standard-range C919. Painted with red kapok, it has a 164-seat three-class layout, including eight seats in business and 18 seats in premium economy.
Both aircraft are equipped with customized cabin seats and facilities, reflecting a focus on passenger comfort and operational flexibility.
To ensure the smooth introduction and subsequent operation of the C919, Air China and China Southern Airlines will collaborate with COMAC on various tasks such as model selection, production supervision, personnel training and operational preparation.
Additionally, the European airworthiness certification process for the C919 is progressing. In July, a delegation from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency conducted an on-site inspection of the aircraft. They performed simulated tests on the C919's flight instruments, boarded it for close observation and discussed specific details with CAAC representatives.
Up to now, a total of nine C919 aircraft have been delivered to customers. Among them, the C919 aircraft of China Eastern Airlines, the first user, has been operating smoothly for 15 consecutive months, flying five scheduled routes and completing more than 3,600 commercial flights.
