C919 Faces Cold Shoulder at Farnborough Airshow: Certification Remains Biggest Hurdle, International Market Path Remains Long

C919 Faces Cold Shoulder at Farnborough Airshow: Certification Remains Biggest Hurdle, International Market Path Remains LongAt the Farnborough International Airshow, which concluded on July 22nd in London, Boeing and Airbus once again engaged in a fierce competition, securing 118 and 164 orders respectively. However, the highly anticipated Chinese Commercial Aircraft Corporation (COMAC) C919 large passenger jet encountered an unprecedented "cold shoulder" at the event, failing to secure any overseas orders

C919 Faces Cold Shoulder at Farnborough Airshow: Certification Remains Biggest Hurdle, International Market Path Remains Long

At the Farnborough International Airshow, which concluded on July 22nd in London, Boeing and Airbus once again engaged in a fierce competition, securing 118 and 164 orders respectively. However, the highly anticipated Chinese Commercial Aircraft Corporation (COMAC) C919 large passenger jet encountered an unprecedented "cold shoulder" at the event, failing to secure any overseas orders. This starkly contrasts with the 40 orders received at the Singapore Airshow earlier this year, leaving many surprised and puzzled. Why did the C919 face such indifference at the Farnborough Airshow? Is it due to international "targeting" or inherent flaws in the C919 itself?

The Farnborough Airshow is the world's second-largest aviation event after the Paris Air Show, attracting over 1,200 aircraft manufacturers and suppliers from across the globe. The event showcased the robust growth of the aviation industry, evident in the displays of the US Air Force's F-35A fighter jet and B-52 bomber in the military domain, and the intense competition between Boeing and Airbus in the commercial realm. However, the C919's "cold reception" stands out as a notable phenomenon.

Lack of Certification: The First Hurdle for the C919's Entry into the International Market

The C919 was showcased as a model at the event, preventing potential customers from experiencing its internal structure, cabin facilities, and actual flight performance firsthand, undoubtedly weakening its presentation. For airlines, aircraft purchases represent major investment decisions. They require comprehensive understanding of product details, which cannot be met through model displays, naturally reducing their purchase intent.

So, why did the C919 not exhibit a physical aircraft?

The fundamental reason lies in the lack of EASA (European Union Aviation Safety Agency) certification for the C919. Only with EASA certification can the C919 fly in European countries and truly enter the international market. While COMAC has established contact with EASA, obtaining certification is expected to take at least another one to two years. Meanwhile, the European side has explicitly stated that the C919 requires more thorough preparation before entering its market. EASA has also imposed a five-year "observation period," implying that even with outstanding performance, certification for the C919 won't be a simple matter.

The lack of certification has become the first hurdle for the C919's entry into the international market, and the primary reason for its "cold reception" at the Farnborough Airshow. Without certification, the C919 cannot enter the European and American markets, naturally hindering its ability to secure orders.

Insufficient Brand Recognition: Challenges Faced by the C919

Beyond the certification issue, the C919's international brand recognition is notably lacking. Compared to Boeing and Airbus, aviation giants that have spent years developing and establishing extensive brand awareness and customer loyalty worldwide, the C919, as a latecomer, faces a relatively late start and needs more time and effort to enhance its global brand influence.

Limited Production Capacity: Challenges Faced by the C919

Moreover, the C919 exhibits limitations in production capacity. Boeing and Airbus possess extensive experience and mature industrial chains, with quarterly aircraft production exceeding COMAC's annual output. For airlines, stable and rapid aircraft delivery is paramount, and the C919's production capacity cannot meet this demand, naturally making airlines lean towards established manufacturers during selection.

Achievements of the C919 in the Domestic Market

Despite its setbacks in the international market, the C919 has made a promising start in the domestic market. Since its domestic operation began last May, major airlines like China Eastern and China Southern have actively placed orders, demonstrating their high approval of the C919. In actual flight operation, the C919 has exhibited excellent reliability and stability. Flight crews have highly praised its control performance, while passengers have expressed satisfaction with its spacious and comfortable cabin environment.

In the coming years, the domestic aviation market is expected to continue its rapid growth, generating sustained demand for new aircraft. Leveraging its domestic production advantage and strong performance, the C919 is poised to capture a larger share of the domestic market. Additionally, as China's tourism industry continues to expand and regional airlines develop, demand for smaller aircraft is increasing. The C919, with its structural flexibility and diverse route options, can adapt to the needs of various markets.

Conclusion

The successful development of the C919 represents a significant achievement for China's aviation industry, symbolizing China's ambition as an aviation powerhouse. Despite its setbacks in the international market, the C919's success in the domestic market confirms its substantial growth potential. Moving forward, the C919 needs to continuously enhance its competitiveness, overcome the certification hurdle, boost its brand recognition, and strengthen its production capacity to become a truly formidable force in the international market.

Addressing the certification issue is crucial to the C919's future development. While the path may be arduous, the prospects are promising. COMAC needs to continue its efforts to secure EASA certification at the earliest opportunity. Once obtained, it is believed that the C919 will enter a wider international market and engage in more direct competition with Boeing and Airbus on a global scale.

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