The Chinese aerospace company, COMAC, showcased its domestically-developed C919 passenger jet in Hong Kong, marking the first time the aircraft has ventured outside of mainland China. The C919, along with another Chinese-made aircraft, the ARJ21, were displayed at a welcome ceremony held at Hong Kong International Airport on Wednesday. The event was attended by officials and media, offering them a close-up look at the narrow-bodied aircraft.

During the ceremony, Hong Kong's leader, John Lee, expressed his admiration for China's successful development of the large passenger jet, stating that it signifies the country's leading position in the transportation manufacturing industry. Lee also emphasized the significance of the two airplanes' visit to Hong Kong, highlighting the importance that China places on Hong Kong's aviation industry. He revealed that over 1,000 orders have been placed for the C919, and Hong Kong's Civil Aviation Department has actively participated in the certification process and pilot training for the aircraft.

COMAC, in its pursuit to compete with industry giants Airbus and Boeing in the single-aisle commercial aircraft market, has designed many of the C919's components. However, some key parts, including its engine, are still sourced from the West. This demonstrates the company's collaborative approach to combine international expertise with domestic capabilities.

In addition to the welcome ceremony, the C919 is scheduled to perform a flyby over Victoria Harbor on Saturday, weather permitting. This flyby will provide onlookers with a glimpse of the new aircraft and further generate excitement around its capabilities. Both the C919 and ARJ21 will remain on display at Hong Kong's international airport until Sunday, allowing officials, lawmakers, representatives from the aviation industry, and youth groups, among others, to visit and explore the aircraft.

The aerospace industry plays a crucial role in China's strategic plans to transition from being the world's low-cost factory to a creator of profitable technology. While recent focus has shifted to industries such as computer chips, renewable energy, and artificial intelligence, China's anticipated growth in the aircraft market over the next two decades solidifies the aerospace sector's importance. The C919, after 16 years of development, received certification in 2022 and can fly a maximum range of approximately 3,500 miles (5,630 kilometers), accommodating 158-168 passengers. Its maiden commercial flight from Shanghai to Beijing took place in May earlier this year.

COMAC's ARJ21, a smaller aircraft designed to rival Canadian company Bombardier Inc. and Brazilian company Embraer SA, was initially delivered in 2014. Depending on its configuration, the ARJ21 can seat 78 to 90 passengers and has a range of up to 3,700 kilometers (2,300 miles).

With the C919's debut in Hong Kong and its imminent entry into the global market, COMAC aims to establish itself as a formidable contender in the field of commercial aircraft manufacturing, challenging the duopoly currently held by Airbus and Boeing.