A Star Alliance carrier has become the first to purchase the Chinese-designed and built widebody COMAC C929, how will this affect travel.
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Chinese COMAC C929
The Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (COMAC) has been making significant strides in the aviation industry with its development of the C929, a widebody airliner poised to challenge the dominance of established manufacturers like Airbus and Boeing. Originally a joint venture with Russia, the project, formerly known as the CR929, underwent a rebranding after Russia’s exit in 2023. The China-Russia coalition fell apart due to westerns sanctions connected with the conflict in Ukraine.
The C929 is designed to offer 280 and 400 seats and a range of 12,000 km, positioning it as a competitor to models such as the Airbus A330neo and Boeing 787 Dreamliner. This new entrant into the widebody market symbolizes China’s ambition to become a global player in the aviation sector.
Air China Becomes First Customer
In a landmark development, COMAC announced at the Zhuhai Airshow on November 12, 2024, that Air China has become the launch customer for the C929. While the exact number of aircraft ordered and the delivery timeline were not disclosed, this agreement signifies a substantial commitment to integrating domestically produced widebody jets into Air China’s fleet.
This move aligns with China’s broader strategy to enhance its aviation capabilities and reduce reliance on foreign aircraft manufacturers. The deal, announced at one of Asia’s premier aviation events, demonstrates China’s confidence in its homegrown aviation industry and highlights Air China’s role in pioneering the adoption of the C929.
“A report in April from the C929’s fuselage manufacturer said it aimed to deliver the first fuselage section by September 2027.
COMAC deputy general manager Tong Yu in May told a group of Hong Kong reporters in Shanghai that a C929 prototype will be seen in the near future and estimated the jet could “soon” take a test flight, according to Hong Kong newspaper Tai Kong Pao.” – Reuters
Delivery dates have not yet been disclosed but completed, tested, and approved types will likely come after 2028 at the earliest.
Is This Safe?
Safety remains a paramount concern for any new aircraft entering the market. COMAC’s previous model, the C919, has been operational within China since May 2023. However, it has yet to receive certification from Western aviation authorities such as the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA).
The certification process is rigorous and can span several years, as evidenced by the C919’s ongoing efforts to achieve EASA certification, with projections aiming for 2025. The C929 will similarly need to undergo these stringent evaluations to ensure compliance with international safety standards before it can operate in Western markets. Travelers should watch how COMAC addresses safety and regulatory hurdles to reassure the global market.
Will You Fly on It?
For travelers, particularly those utilizing miles and points through Star Alliance carriers to Asia, the introduction of the C929 presents new considerations. Air China’s adoption of the C929 may lead to its deployment on various international routes. While some passengers may have reservations about flying on a new aircraft model pending Western certification, it’s important to note that airlines prioritize safety and regulatory compliance, and Air China will be no different.
However, questions remain about whether travelers would choose alternatives to avoid the C929 if they perceive it as less proven than its Boeing or Airbus counterparts. In the fallout of the Boeing 737-MAX issues, some flyers were booking away from routes that scheduled the aircraft on their route. CEOs operated a media campaign when reintroducing the Max before Alaska had a safety incident that unwound any renewed confidence. Ultimately, decisions will likely depend on how the C929 performs and whether it secures certifications that build global trust.
Conclusion
The unveiling of the C929 and its adoption by Air China mark significant milestones in China’s aviation industry. As COMAC continues to develop and seek international certification for its aircraft, the global aviation landscape may witness increased competition and diversification. For passengers, staying informed about aircraft developments and certifications will be essential in making travel choices.
The C929 represents a bold move toward establishing China as a major player in aviation. Whether travelers embrace this aircraft depends on its ability to prove itself safe, reliable, and competitive with industry-leading alternatives.
What do you think?
I’d fly the C929 before the Max which is proven to be dangerous and I’ll never set foot on it.
As Boeing is a falling star with little or nothing to offer, Airbus needs a competitor and Comac seems to fit the bill.
I’d fly the Max which has been over-inspected from top to bottom . If the over-trained pilots are willing to fly the Max then I’m willing to go along .
In China , on the other hand , people are ordered to do all sort of ignorant things . China’s contribution to transportation is the “rickshaw” .
Hmmm… yet the Max’s door blew off on the Alaska flight!
That makes little sense.
Was this written by AI?
+1 .
Feels like it was written by a cheap/free version of AI.
+1 .
Meh!
Let’s not be naive. More than 50% of components that go into Boeing and Airbus planes are manufactured in China. In order to increase profits we sold our souls to China. We have given them our technology and knowledge for a buck. We are just starting to see the results, hang on for the ride it’s only going to get rougher. Chinas planes will be as good if not better then those produced today.
@Eric – This is a great point!
Many are ignorant of anything under the hood. They just see the brand being western made & not bothered with who makes what stuff inside.
I flew Air China a long time ago. Never again. So, I very doubt I’ll fly the C929.
Flew Air China inside China before the pandemic. Better coach experience than US domestic flights. Leg room about the same but had a complementary meal.
Why? Air China planes are all either Boeing or Airbus. You feeling unsafe in both types of planes?
“it’s important to note that airlines prioritize safety and regulatory compliance…”
That’s a pretty idealistic viewpoint that historically has not always been the case. But if it makes you feel better, sure!
There is a sub title of “Is This Safe?”
The same question can be asked of Boeing!!
The Chinese may have the better airframe the considering how things are going in Seattle.
To date all flying aircraft originated from the invention of the Wright Brothers. So far there are fuselarge. wings, tails, rudder, elevator, engines, wheels, etc used in an aircraft. Unless there are aircraft built with any new technology, all aircraft are descendent of Wright Brothers, a Western invention and design.
Who cares what has you got to say or to talk rubbish with, as everybody is positively looking forward to be on A Brand New Big Cities Proven C929 to go roaring like an eagle to fly along with the wind of tomorrow and nobody would actually bother even if you prefers to stay backward to continue playing with your own little chicken crowd in your backward ghosts town village at home !!!