BEIJING– Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (Comac) is accelerating its global ambitions for the C909 regional jet by injecting fresh capital into its subsidiary carrier, Chengdu Airlines (EU). The move aims to strengthen international operations and expand the aircraft’s footprint beyond mainland China.
The funding package, totaling 634 million yuan (US$91.76 million), significantly increases Chengdu Airlines’ registered capital and reinforces Comac’s 48 percent controlling stake. Based at Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU), the airline is expected to deploy more C909 aircraft on routes across Southeast Asia, Central Asia, and Russia.
Comac’s Capital Boost Strategy
Comac’s latest capital infusion has nearly tripled Chengdu Airlines’ registered capital from 680 million yuan to 2 billion yuan.
Analysts view this as a calculated step to use the carrier as a platform for showcasing the C909 in international markets.
By strengthening its affiliated airline, Comac can directly manage fleet expansion and route deployment. This approach allows the manufacturer to demonstrate operational reliability and cost efficiency to potential foreign buyers.
The funding also aligns with Comac’s broader strategy to compete with established Western manufacturers in the regional jet and narrowbody segments.
While the C919 remains focused on domestic Chinese operators, the C909 is emerging as the company’s primary export product.
C909 Global Expansion
Originally developed as the ARJ21, the C909 can carry up to 97 passengers and operate flights up to 3,700 kilometers. Its range and capacity make it suitable for short- to medium-haul routes across Asia.
Chengdu Airlines has actively explored new international destinations using the C909, including Vladivostok and Khabarovsk in Russia, as well as Osh in Kyrgyzstan. In June 2024, the airline launched the jet’s first Central Asia route linking Kashgar with Khujand in Tajikistan.
The aircraft has also entered Southeast Asian markets through partnerships and leases. In April 2025, two C909 aircraft were leased to VietJet Air (VJ) in Vietnam, marking the country as the third overseas operator of the jet after Indonesia and Laos.
Indonesia’s TransNusa became the first international customer in April 2023, followed by Lao Airlines in 2025. Air Cambodia later signed a memorandum of understanding for 10 C909 aircraft, with options for 10 more.
At the Singapore Airshow, Comac confirmed that nine C909 aircraft are operating in Southeast Asia on more than 20 routes. These aircraft have carried a cumulative total of 700,000 passengers, signaling growing regional acceptance.
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COMAC 909’s Competitive Positioning
Industry observers believe operating the C909 through a controlled subsidiary gives Comac a strategic advantage. Demonstrating the aircraft on active international routes provides tangible performance data for prospective customers.
Analysts note that the C909’s economics may appeal to airlines seeking lower acquisition and operating costs during periods of economic uncertainty. Its suitability for two-hour regional flights makes it particularly attractive in Southeast Asia.
Comac itself received a separate 44 billion yuan capital injection from a group led by China’s State-owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission. Following that investment, the state body’s stake in Comac rose to just over 53 percent, SCMP reported.
With strengthened financial backing and expanding route networks, the C909 is positioned as a central pillar in China’s effort to gain a stronger foothold in the global regional aviation market.
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