13-12-2023 (HONG KONG) China’s ambitious foray into the aviation industry reached a new milestone as the C919, the nation’s domestically produced passenger jet, made its debut outside the mainland at Hong Kong International Airport on Wednesday (Dec 13). International media in Hong Kong were granted an up-close look at the aircraft, marking a significant step in Beijing’s longstanding aspirations to compete with Western counterparts in the aviation sector and reduce dependency on foreign technology.
The C919, produced by the state-owned Commercial Aircraft Corp of China (COMAC), undertook its inaugural commercial flight in May and is viewed as a critical asset in China’s quest to challenge foreign aircraft models such as the Boeing 737 MAX and the Airbus A320.
Now prominently displayed in Hong Kong, the C919 is set to grace the skies above the city’s Victoria Harbour on Saturday. Hong Kong leader John Lee lauded the development of the C919 and its precursor, the ARJ21, as “important milestones” in China’s aviation sector during a welcoming ceremony at the airport.
“China’s successful development of a large passenger jet symbolizes its leading position in the transportation manufacturing industry,” remarked Lee. He also noted that the C919 has amassed over 1,000 orders, underscoring the global interest in China’s venture into large-scale passenger aircraft production.
Despite China’s significant investments in the C919, aiming for self-sufficiency in key technologies, it is noteworthy that many of the jet’s components are sourced from overseas. While the C919 received official certification to fly last year after more than a decade in development, it is yet to secure any international buyers.
Reporters and guests were granted access to tour the aircraft on Wednesday, with the following two days earmarked for visits from local community representatives. The C919, having landed in Hong Kong on Tuesday, is scheduled to conduct two rounds of flights around Hong Kong Island on Saturday morning, weather permitting, as part of its showcase in the region.
