China's C919 takes to the skies at Singapore Airshow to challenge global duopoly

The biennial Singapore Airshow opened its tenth edition on Tuesday at the Changi Exhibition Centre, featuring a high-profile flight demonstration by the C919 narrow-body jet.

Developed by the Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (COMAC), the aircraft's appearance in the city-state marks a significant push by the Chinese manufacturer to position itself as a viable alternative to the long-standing Boeing-Airbus dominance in the global aviation market.

Spectators at the event witnessed the C919 perform aerial maneuvers over the sea, a logistical necessity for this year's show as takeoff and landing operations are separated from the primary display airspace.

The aircraft, designed to seat between 158 and 192 passengers, boasts a range of up to 5,555 kilometers. COMAC representatives highlighted the jet's modern cockpit ergonomics and enhanced cabin environment, which features reduced noise levels and improved air filtration systems aimed at competing with the latest generation of Western-built airframes.

In addition to the flight display, COMAC has established a strong presence in the static exhibition area. The lineup includes a standard C919 and two versions of the C909 regional jet – a medical evacuation variant and a commercial model operated by the Indonesian carrier TransNusa.

This marks the Southeast Asian debut for the C909 medical aircraft, which is configured for ophthalmic surgery and emergency patient transport, signaling COMAC's intent to diversify its offerings beyond standard commercial transport.

The strategic focus on Southeast Asia is evident as the company seeks its first major customers outside of the Chinese domestic market. To date, the manufacturer has delivered more than 200 aircraft across its C919 and C909 platforms, which have collectively carried over 36 million passengers.

While the C919 is the flagship intended to rival the Boeing 737 Max and Airbus A320neo, the smaller C909 has already made inroads in the region, with nine units currently in service across Indonesia, Laos and Vietnam.

The Singapore Airshow will run through February 8, with the first four days reserved for industry professionals and the final weekend open to the general public.