The Jet That's Too Chinese to Fly Anywhere

In May 2023, the COMAC C919 entered commercial service with China Eastern Airlines. Chinese state media called it proof that China had joined the first tier of global aircraft manufacturing. COMAC announced an order book of more than a thousand aircraft. The international aviation press asked whether Boeing and Airbus had a serious new competitor.

Look at the order book more carefully. Every firm commitment is from a Chinese state-owned airline, a Chinese state-controlled leasing company, or a Chinese aviation entity operating under government direction. There is not a single confirmed order from any airline in Europe, North America, Southeast Asia, the Middle East, or Africa.

This is not an accident. And it is not — despite what both sides of this story tend to claim — primarily about politics or quality. It is about three interlocking structural problems built into the C919's design and supply chain that make it effectively impossible for a non-Chinese airline to operate, finance, or maintain. Each problem would be serious on its own. Together, they form a lock that nothing COMAC currently controls can open.
#C919 #COMAC #AviationHistory #ChineseAviation

DISCLAIMER
This video is for educational and entertainment purposes only. All facts, figures, and dates presented are based on publicly available historical sources and have been researched to the best of our ability. Some details may be simplified for narrative clarity. We do not claim this to be an exhaustive or definitive account of the events described. The views and interpretations expressed are those of the creator and do not represent any official position of the airlines, manufacturers, or institutions mentioned. Footage and images used are either licensed, in the public domain, or used under fair use for commentary and educational purposes. If you believe any content infringes on your rights, please contact us directly before filing a claim.

Видео The Jet That's Too Chinese to Fly Anywhere канала The Last Passenger