The C919 aircraft, designed and manufactured in China, took off today for its maiden commercial flight, state media reported.

The China Eastern Airlines medium-haul passenger plane took off from Shanghai (Eastern) Heogchao Airport at 10:32 [σ.σ. τοπική ώρα· 05:32 ώρα Ελλάδας]bound for the capital Beijing, was recorded by the cameras of the Chinese state television network CCTV, which broadcast live the moment of take-off that marked its official entry into the civil aviation market.

COMAC’s development of the aircraft began fifteen years ago, as part of the Asian giant’s drive to become more self-sufficient. It is considered competitive with the A320neo (Airbus) and 737 MAX (Boeing). Chinese President Xi Jinping calls it an important and innovative achievement of his country.

China Eastern ordered five aircraft of the type in March 2021 and took delivery of the first in December. He expects the rest within the year.

In total, domestic carriers have ordered more than 1,200 aircraft of the type from COMAC, according to company data. For the C919, the Chinese market is characterized as sufficient. However, the prospects for its export are uncertain, as it has not yet been certified by the supervisory bodies of Europe and the USA (EASA and FAA respectively). COMAC predicts that production will reach 150 samples in five years.+