C919 Takes Flight Internationally, Starting with Shanghai-Hong Kong Route
China’s C919 airliner, a domestically developed aircraft, will soon fly its first international route, connecting Shanghai and Hong Kong. The launch marks a significant step toward expanding the C919’s presence across Asia.
China’s domestically produced C919 airliner is gearing up for a broader regional debut next year, with plans to extend its presence beyond China’s borders. After successfully operating on some of the busiest domestic air routes, the C919 is now poised to fly internationally, with its first overseas route planned for January 2025.
China Eastern Airlines has confirmed that the C919 will operate its first cross-border service starting on January 1, 2025, connecting Shanghai with Hong Kong. This marks a significant milestone for the aircraft, as the Hong Kong route becomes the airliner’s first international destination.
The airline is set to begin daily return flights between Shanghai and Hong Kong, with the C919 making its presence felt on one of the region’s busiest air routes. China Eastern is currently receiving its 10th C919 from Commercial Aircraft Corp of China (Comac), the aircraft’s manufacturer, and preparing for its integration into the Hong Kong route.
The expansion of the C919 into international markets is part of China’s broader ambition to establish its home-grown aircraft on the global stage, especially as demand for air travel in Asia continues to grow. The C919’s entry into the Hong Kong market signals China’s confidence in the aircraft’s performance and its potential for wider regional adoption.