The Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China, Ltd. (COMAC) announced during the 15th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition that its ARJ21 aircraft will now be commercially named C909.
This event, held on November 12, 2024, marked the standardization of product names under the formula “COMAC + Model.” Thus, the manufacturer’s fleet now officially includes the models “COMAC C909,” “COMAC C919,” and “COMAC C929,” according to our partner media outlet, AEROIN.
The C909, considered an ally to mainline aircraft, entered commercial service in 2016. Since then, 150 units have been delivered, safely transporting over 17 million passengers.
COMAC has worked to continuously improve the aircraft’s performance, crew experience, and interior comfort. The C909 is available in different interior configurations, ranging from economy class to high-density options, catering to market needs.
The model is noted for its takeoff and landing capabilities, as well as its resilience in adverse conditions such as short and narrow runways in high-temperature areas or icy regions. Additionally, the C909 is compatible with the use of Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF), allowing a blend of up to 50%, addressing the growing demand for more sustainable solutions in the aviation industry.
The COMAC C919, a narrow-body aircraft designed to compete with the Airbus A320neo and Boeing 737 MAX, offers a capacity of up to 174 passengers in a high-density configuration and a maximum range of 5,555 kilometers. Since its entry into service in 2023, the C919 has positioned itself as a competitive alternative for the Chinese domestic market and regional routes.
Meanwhile, the COMAC C929 represents the Chinese aerospace industry’s ambition to compete in the wide-body segment, challenging the Boeing 787 and Airbus A350. This aircraft, with a capacity for more than 280 passengers in a standard configuration, is designed for long-haul routes with an operational range exceeding 12,000 kilometers. It is expected to enter commercial service towards the end of this decade after overcoming development hurdles, including the withdrawal of Russian partner UAC.
As COMAC progresses from development to industrialization, more Chinese-made commercial aircraft are entering the aviation market, traditionally dominated by Western brands. The name standardization strategy aims to strengthen its brand and expand its influence in the industry.
