The COMAC C919 is China’s ambitious foray into the commercial aviation sector, aiming to rival the Airbus A320 and Boeing 737. Designed for short to medium-haul routes, it symbolises China’s push for technological self-reliance.
“Passengers have shown remarkable recognition and enthusiasm. Many even make special round trips to experience flying on this domestically produced aircraft.”
Zhang Shaobo, a CEA C919 captain
As the launch customer, China Eastern Airlines (CEA) has played a leading role in setting the pace for the aircraft’s deployment, pioneering operational standards, procedures, and best practices. The airline has chalked up multiple industry “firsts,” aiming to position the C919 as a safe, ambitious, brand-strengthening, and economically viable aircraft. On 28 May, the airline marked the second anniversary of the commercial operation of the C919.
C919 x China Eastern Airlines: A Two-Year Milestone Timeline
| Date | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 9 December 2022 | China Eastern Airlines (CEA) becomes the world’s first customer to take delivery of the COMAC C919, marking a historic moment for Chinese aviation. |
| 28 May 2023 | First commercial flight (MU9191) of the C919 takes off from Shanghai Hongqiao to Beijing Capital, officially entering service. |
| October 2024 | At the North Bund International Aviation Forum, CEA showcases its achievements in building a large-scale operational model for the C919. |
| 28 May 2025 | CEA marks the 2nd anniversary of the C919 in commercial service, highlighting achievements across training, flight hours, safety, and utilisation. |
By the Numbers: C919’s Two-Year Impact (as of 27 May 2025)
| Metric | Figure |
|---|---|
| Commercial Flights Operated | Over 11,400 |
| Total Flight Hours | More than 28,000 |
| Passengers Carried | Over 1.57 million |
| Pilot Crew Trained | 127 pilots |
| Flight Attendants Trained | Over 640 |
| Maintenance Crew Trained | Nearly 500 |
| Dispatchers Trained | 54 |
| Passenger Load Factor | ~80% consistently |
| Cities Served | 12 cities, including Hong Kong |
| Premium Routes | 14, incl. Shanghai–Beijing, Shanghai–Hong Kong |
