Beijing, December 16, 2025 (Agencies) – China’s domestically developed C909 regional jet has safely transported more than 30 million passengers, with 175 aircraft delivered to date and operations now spanning 12 countries, the People’s Daily reported Monday, citing data from the Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (COMAC).
The C909 accounts for 60 percent of China’s regional jet market and has become a symbol of the country’s growing aerospace capabilities. Developed in line with international airworthiness standards, the medium- and short-range twin-engine turbofan aircraft seats 78 to 97 passengers and has a range of 2,225 to 3,700 kilometers. It made its maiden flight on June 28, 2016.
In recent years, the C909 has expanded its route network and diversified into multiple variants, including freighter aircraft, emergency rescue command planes, medical aircraft, and business jets. It has operated over 700 routes, connecting hundreds of cities and transporting tens of thousands of passengers daily.
The aircraft has also been deployed internationally, enhancing connectivity between Chinese and foreign cities. Nearly 20 routes have been launched by overseas airlines such as Indonesia’s TransNusa, Lao Airlines, and Vietnam’s VietJet Air, linking more than 20 cities across Southeast Asia.
COMAC emphasized that the C909’s milestone reflects the healthy and steady development of China’s commercial aviation industry. Over 23 years of exploration, the program has overcome challenges in design, manufacturing, safety, and operations, meeting international standards and proving reliable in extreme environments.
The C909 marks the first time China has completed the full cycle of jet airliner development — from design and testing to batch production and global operation. Officials say the aircraft has laid the foundation for the country’s large aircraft industry, establishing a technological system and cultivating a skilled workforce.
Continuous improvements have enhanced the jet’s performance, cabin comfort, and operational experience, earning growing recognition at home and abroad.