China’s C919 jet begins European regulator test flights

Two test pilots from the EASA have conducted verification flights, a source with knowledge of the arrangements told the South China Morning Post.

The flights follow delays in the high-stakes certification process last year and form part of ongoing technical exchanges between the aircraft’s manufacturer, Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (COMAC,) and the European regulator, the source said.

"[EASA] agreed the aircraft is good and safe ... other than some teething problems that required tweaks," the source said.

Another source confirmed the test flights and said exchanges between COMAC and EASA have increased in recent months.

China’s C919 aircraft performs at the Singapore Airshow 2024. Photo by AP

Jason Li Hanming, an aviation and logistics analyst, said the progress was encouraging and that EASA’s test flights would be central to the approval process, adding that the aircraft would be assessed on its ability to handle extreme situations in real-time, airborne conditions.

Flight tests represent the third stage of EASA’s four-part certification regime, validating aircraft performance under extreme maneuvers, stalls, and challenging weather conditions. After successful flight testing and related demonstrations, EASA reviews the full compliance package and resolves any outstanding issues before issuing certification.

The C919, China’s rival to the Boeing 737 and Airbus A320 narrowbody jets, has been in domestic service since May 2023 but still requires Western approval to fly beyond China.