COMAC secures largest C909 order outside China

Air Cambodia has signed an agreement to acquire 10 COMAC C909 jets, with additional letters of intent for 10 more units, according to Chinese state media. The deal represents the largest order for the Chinese 90-seat aircraft outside its domestic market and signals a push for COMAC in the Southeast Asian region.

With this agreement, Air Cambodia is set to become the fourth international operator of the C909, following TransNusa, Lao Airlines, and Vietjet Air. Currently, 165 C909 aircraft are in operation, primarily serving airlines based in China.

Air Cambodia’s current fleet consists of three ATR 72 turboprops and two Airbus A320 narrowbodies. The acquisition of the C909 will expand its capacity in the regional jet market segment, which is typically served by aircraft with around 90 seats.

Challenge for Embraer

The COMAC C909 is designed to carry up to 90 passengers and is notable as the first commercial jet produced in China. While most units are flown by Chinese carriers, the growing number of international operators reveals COMAC’s intent to compete globally. The C909 is the nearest competitor to the Embraer E190-E2, currently the main offering in the 100-seat category.

The larger C919 jetliner, also manufactured by COMAC, remains in service exclusively with Chinese airlines. COMAC’s efforts to expand its customer base abroad are focused on emerging markets in Southeast Asia, where demand for regional jets is rising.

The order from Air Cambodia is viewed as a challenge for Embraer, which has been the primary supplier of jets in this capacity segment. The airline’s move may influence other carriers in the region to consider alternative jet suppliers as the competitive landscape evolves.

About the Author

Ricardo Meier

Creator of the website that started in 1996 as a magazine. He also writes on Brazilian websites AUTOO, MOTOO and MetrôCPTM.

Articles by the author »