China’s three largest airlines—Air China, China Eastern Airlines, and China Southern Airlines—are set to significantly expand their fleets of Comac’s C919 narrowbody jet in 2025. Each airline expects to receive between 10 and 12 C919 aircraft this year, marking a substantial increase in deliveries and reinforcing China’s push for self-reliance in aviation.
These fleet expansion plans were disclosed alongside the airlines’ annual financial results and align with Comac’s strategy to ramp up production of its domestically developed jet. The C919, designed to compete with Boeing and Airbus in the narrowbody market, has been steadily gaining traction since its commercial debut.
China Eastern Airlines, which became the first carrier to introduce the C919 into commercial service, currently operates a small fleet of the aircraft. With the upcoming deliveries, the airline aims to scale up its operations significantly. Meanwhile, Air China and China Southern Airlines, having recently begun integrating the jet into their fleets, are expected to follow suit, further solidifying the C919’s presence in the domestic market.
The accelerated deliveries highlight China’s broader ambition to reduce reliance on foreign aircraft manufacturers. Comac has been ramping up production to meet the growing demand, signaling progress in the country’s aerospace sector. Industry analysts see this as a crucial milestone for Comac, demonstrating its ability to scale production and support major airline customers.
However, challenges remain, including supply chain constraints and the need for further international certifications. As China’s top airlines incorporate more C919s into their operations, the aircraft’s performance in commercial service will be closely watched. The expansion represents a major step in China’s long-term aviation strategy, reinforcing its commitment to establishing a globally competitive homegrown aerospace industry.
