For the Aviation Industry Corporation, in charge of the project, the endorsement granted by the authorities of the sector means that the aircraft also meets quality standards and can enter a market dominated by Boeing and Airbus.
The permit also indicates that the plane’s manufacturing complies with national standards.
In addition to the production certificate, the C919 has also obtained the airworthiness certificate, but it still needs the certificate guaranteeing its safe operation.
The development of the aircraft began back in 2015, its maiden flight took place two years later and on last July 19th, it completed successfully all tests required, after delays in the project caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.
The plane seeks to compete with models such as the Airbus A320 from and the Boeing 737 MAX. It has between 158 and 168 seats(2nd class and 1st class respectively, and its operational range is in the order of 4,075 km (2,200 nmi), and 5,555 km (2,999 nmi) for the extended-range version.
Large-scale production of the aircraft is expected to begin soon, with the delivery to China Eastern Airlines, which has signed a contract to purchase five units, as well as other companies.
jrr/llp/oda/ymr