China's COMAC C919 EASA Certification Flights Begin in Shanghai

The aviation duopoly faces a new challenger. According to South China Morning Post, European evaluators have touched down in Shanghai to conduct verification flights for the C919 narrowbody jet. This marks a critical milestone for COMAC as it seeks Western safety certification to compete globally against Boeing and Airbus.

High Stakes of COMAC C919 EASA Certification Flights

Two test pilots from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) are leading the evaluation. Their mission is to verify the aircraft's handling qualities and flight control laws—rigorous tests required before any aircraft can operate in European airspace. For China, this isn't just about a plane; it's about validating its high-end manufacturing on the global stage.

Challenging the Boeing-Airbus Duopoly

While the C919 already serves domestic routes within China, EASA certification would grant it legitimacy in lucrative international markets. With Boeing struggling with production issues and Airbus facing long backlogs, the C919 could emerge as a viable alternative for airlines looking to diversify their fleets.