COMAC C909 Sends a Global Message: 30 Million Passengers, 175 Aircraft Delivered, Operations in 12 Countries
China’s domestically developed C909 regional jet has reached a major milestone, having safely carried more than 30 million passengers since entering commercial service. Developed by the Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (COMAC), the C909 programme has now recorded 175 aircraft deliveries and is actively operating in 12 countries, underlining China’s growing footprint in the global civil aviation market.
The C909 has become a cornerstone of China’s regional aviation strategy, accounting for approximately 60% of the domestic regional jet market, while steadily expanding its presence beyond China’s borders.
A New-Generation Regional Jet with Global Ambitions
Designed in line with international airworthiness standards, the C909 is a twin-engine turbofan regional aircraft configured to seat 78 to 97 passengers, with a range of 2,225 to 3,700 kilometres. The aircraft performed its maiden flight on 28 June 2016, marking a key step in China’s journey toward independent commercial aircraft development.
Since then, the programme has progressed from initial operations to large-scale commercial deployment, demonstrating reliability, adaptability, and operational efficiency across diverse environments.
Expanding Route Network and Mission Versatility
The C909 has accumulated operations on more than 700 routes, connecting hundreds of cities and transporting tens of thousands of passengers each day. Beyond passenger services, the platform has evolved into a multi-role aircraft family, including variants for freight transport, medical evacuation, emergency response, and business aviation.
This versatility has strengthened the aircraft’s appeal to a wide range of operators and missions, supporting both commercial and special-purpose aviation needs.
Growing International Presence in Southeast Asia
International operations have become a key growth pillar for the C909 programme. In Southeast Asia, overseas operators including TransNusa (Indonesia), Lao Airlines, and VietJet Air (Vietnam) have introduced the aircraft on nearly 20 international and regional routes, connecting more than 20 cities across the region.
These deployments are enhancing regional connectivity while positioning the C909 as a competitive alternative in the regional jet segment outside China.
A Milestone for China’s Commercial Aviation Industry
The achievement of transporting over 30 million passengers reflects more than operational success; it represents a structural breakthrough for China’s aerospace industry. Through the C909 programme, China has completed the full lifecycle of a jet airliner—from design and manufacturing to certification, delivery, and sustained commercial operation.
Industry analysts view the C909 as a foundational platform that has helped establish a domestic technological ecosystem, develop skilled aviation talent, and pave the way for larger aircraft programmes. Continuous upgrades to performance, crew experience, and cabin comfort are further strengthening the aircraft’s global competitiveness.
