Aviation

Comac C919 Moves Closer to Securing EU Certification with EASA

COMAC Secures $1.5B Regional Jets Order Deal with Hainan Airlines

China’s first home-grown passenger jet, the C919, is edging closer to receiving certification from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), following a crucial on-the-ground inspection by the regulator.

According to a report from the South China Morning Post, Chinese sources disclosed that EASA provided positive feedback after their second visit in July, a critical phase in the jet’s certification process.

During this visit, EASA inspectors engaged in hands-on evaluations using COMAC’s full-size level-D simulators, marking the third round of EASA’s four-step compliance demonstration process. This phase is particularly significant as it focuses on ensuring that the aircraft’s structure, electrical systems, and overall design meet stringent regulatory standards.

Aircraft comparisons between the comac C919 and the B737 max 8:Click here

The visit also included testing a Chinese-made complete flight simulator, which rivals the simulators used for the Airbus A320neo and Boeing 737 Max. comac c919 vs boeing 737 price

The positive feedback from EASA is a promising indicator, suggesting that the C919 may be on track for preliminary approval. While full certification remains distant, with European approval anticipated by 2025, this feedback is a critical milestone in the aircraft’s journey towards entering the international market.

Chinese media has expressed optimism about the C919’s progress, particularly as EASA has shown keen interest in the aircraft’s commercial operations within China. COMAC is expected to begin flight testing for EASA later this year or early next year, aligning with their goal of achieving full certification by 2025.

Is China’s COMAC C919 better than B737max and A319neo?:Click here

Currently, China Eastern Airlines, the only airline operating the C919, has seven of these jets in service, connecting major cities across five routes. As of the end of July, the C919 has flown 3,100 flights, carrying 420,000 passengers, underscoring its growing role in China’s aviation industry.

With EASA’s positive response and continued testing, the C919 is steadily moving closer to earning its place in the global aviation market, representing a significant achievement for China’s aerospace ambitions.

Airlines

Air India to Launch aircraft maintenance training institute in Bengaluru

Air India, one of India’s leading global airlines, is set to establish a Basic Maintenance Training Organization (BMTO) in Bengaluru.

This institute will offer a comprehensive Aircraft Maintenance Engineering (AME) program certified by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). The program will follow an integrated 2+2 year structure, combining classroom learning with practical, hands-on training.

This initiative is part of Air India’s broader goal of creating a robust aviation ecosystem in India. With plans to expand its fleet and strengthen its operations, the airline aims to build a skilled workforce of maintenance engineers, making the organization self-reliant while supporting its ambitious transformation journey.

This country tops visa rejections in the popular Schengen countries

To bring this vision to life, air india has partnered with Bengaluru Airport City Limited (BACL), a subsidiary of Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL). Together, they will develop a state-of-the-art facility spanning 86,000 square feet at Bengaluru Airport City.

This purpose-built campus will feature modern classrooms, well-equipped laboratories, and qualified trainers to deliver world-class education and training. The institute is expected to become operational by mid-2026.

The BMTO will be located close to Air India’s new 12-bay Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility, also set to open in Bengaluru by early 2026. The AME program will begin with two years of academic coursework, followed by two years of practical training at the MRO, ensuring students receive hands-on experience adhering to industry standards.

Sanctions & Engine Issues Ground Half of Russia’s A320neo fleet

In the meantime, Air India has introduced a Cadet AME program in collaboration with reputable institutions in Bengaluru and Hyderabad.

This ensures continuity in its commitment to developing skilled aircraft maintenance engineers while the BMTO facility is under construction. The program also allows students to pursue a bachelor’s degree through university partnerships, enhancing their career and academic opportunities.

With this initiative, air india plane aims to address the growing demand for skilled professionals in aircraft maintenance and engineering, air india new planes contributing to the development of India’s aviation sector and creating specialized career paths for aspiring engineers.