The Chinese planemaker taking on Boeing and Airbus
Singapore Airshow Highlights Comac’s Growing Role in Global Aviation
At the Singapore Airshow, exhibition halls are lined with scale models, mock cockpits, and interactive displays showcasing the latest commercial jets and aviation technology. A particular focal point is Comac, China’s state-owned planemaker, which has made significant strides since its C919 passenger jet made its first trip outside of Chinese territory two years ago.
The C919 is designed to compete with the Airbus A320neo and Boeing 737 MAX, with Comac increasingly targeting markets beyond China. As the company stated, “Comac is setting sights on the Southeast Asian aviation market.” For Comac, the airshow represents an opportunity to establish itself as a potential rival to Airbus and Boeing in the Asia-Pacific region, the world’s fastest-growing aviation market, amid challenges faced by airlines due to delivery delays and stretched supply chains.
“I think in time, Comac will be a global competitor… but it’s going to take them time,” Willie Walsh, director general of the International Air Transport Association (IATA), told the BBC. “I think 10 years, 15 years from now, we’ll be talking about Boeing, Airbus and Comac… But without question, they will be a considerable player in the future.”
Analysts agree that another planemaker in Asia-Pacific is essential. Airlines in the region are struggling with delivery delays from Boeing and Airbus, exacerbated by engine shortages and broader supply chain bottlenecks. IATA data reveals that global carriers are waiting longer than ever for new aircraft, which is raising the average fleet age and increasing operating costs due to older planes being less fuel efficient.
“It’s incredibly frustrating for airlines. The wait between making an order and taking delivery is about seven years,” Walsh said. “This is why Comac is emerging as another option for many Asia-Pacific airlines.”
The company claims to have delivered over 200 C909 and C919 jets, with approximately a quarter of these planes operated by airlines in Laos, Indonesia, and Vietnam. Brunei’s GallopAir has placed a substantial order with Comac, while Cambodia is also planning to acquire around 20 aircraft.
“We need more suppliers in the supply chain,” said Subhas Menon, director general of the Association for Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA). “The problem with this industry is that the supply chain is an oligopoly and sometimes even a duopoly.” “We have been waiting for this for a long time. Comac is a welcome introduction. We need more suppliers in Asia-Pacific especially.”
Comac benefits from strong government support and competitive pricing, which can attract budget airlines in emerging markets. “In the future we welcome all newcomers. We are kee
