China Eastern Airlines has officially begun using China’s domestically produced C919 jetliner for regular flights between Shanghai and Hong Kong, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s aviation industry. On Wednesday, the airline became the first to operate scheduled commercial flights to Hong Kong using the C919.
With an order of 105 C919 aircraft, China Eastern Airlines boasts the largest fleet of these jets worldwide. Hong Kong is now the ninth city served by the airline’s C919 fleet on regular commercial routes. Following the launch, the company plans to conduct daily round-trip flights between the two bustling cities.
The C919 made its inaugural commercial flight from Shanghai to Beijing in May 2023, signaling its entry into the civil aviation market. Since then, the Shanghai-Beijing route operated by the C919 has become a regular service.
Developed by the Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China, Ltd. (COMAC), the C919 is China’s first self-developed trunk jetliner that meets international airworthiness standards. The project was launched in 2007, and the first aircraft rolled off the production line in Shanghai in November 2015.
The introduction of the C919 into regular service marks a proud moment for China’s aviation industry, showcasing the country’s advancements in aerospace technology and its commitment to innovation.
Reference(s):
China's homegrown C919 plane begins regular Shanghai-Hong Kong flights
cgtn.com
