Air China's first C919 plane makes its debut flight

The first C919 aircraft received by Air China arrived in Beijing on Thursday. The aircraft, the airline's first domestically produced large passenger jet, adorned with the national flag, touched down smoothly at Beijing Capital International Airport and was greeted with a symbolic water arch, marking its official entry into its fleet.

The C919 features a two-class configuration with 158 seats — 8 in Business Class and 150 in Economy. This marked a significant step in China's aviation industry, as the C919 becomes a key player in the domestic and international markets.

To ensure the successful integration of the C919, Air China has emphasized safety and preparation. The airline has established specialized teams in aircraft maintenance, personnel training, ground support, and operational control in partnership with the aircraft's manufacturer, Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (COMAC).

These teams diligently prepared for the aircraft's entry, including extensive training for pilots, dispatchers, cabin crew, and safety personnel, as well as the development of robust maintenance and operational support systems.

The C919 is equipped with domestically made seating, custom in-flight entertainment, safety videos, and personalized amenities designed to enhance the passenger experience. Air China will conduct rigorous ground tests, route validation flights, emergency evacuation drills, and operational certification to ensure the aircraft's smooth and safe commercial operations.

In April 2024, Air China signed a contract with COMAC for 100 C919 aircraft, with deliveries scheduled from 2024 to 2031.

The delivery of the C919 aircraft to Air China and China Southern Airlines this week at the COMAC assembly center in Shanghai underscored a significant achievement for the C919 program. This delivery signaled the beginning of the aircraft's service with multiple operators, highlighting COMAC's enhanced production capacity and management capabilities.

With the C919 entering service, the aircraft's presence with three airlines — China Eastern Airlines, Air China and China Southern Airlines — signified a pivotal moment for China's aviation sector, paving the way for the C919's broader adoption and showcasing China's advancements in large passenger jet production.