China is eyeing buyers in the Gulf, where carriers are battling delivery delays with Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China, Ltd. (COMAC) marking its COMAC Dubai Airshow debut on November 17th at Al Maktoum International Airport. The event featured the C919 Middle East debut alongside the C909 business jet showcase, forming a central part of a broader COMAC aircraft exhibition aimed at strengthening China’s commercial aircraft expansion across global markets.
Dubai Airshow 2025 appearance
The airshow appearance represents COMAC’s intent to expand international visibility through flight performances, exhibitions, and product promotions. The company said it aims to use the event to strengthen cooperation and mutual trust with partners across the global aviation sector, highlighting China’s latest commercial aircraft expansion.
A Dual Display: C919 and C909
In the static display zone, visitors were able to explore two of COMAC’s flagship aircraft simultaneously: a C919 operated by China Southern Airlines and a COMAC-owned C909 business jet.
The showcased C919 features a 164-seat, three-class layout and an interior inspired by an oriental aesthetic theme described as “Being in an elegant Chinese style, like walking in the light.” Alongside it, the C909 offered a contrasting experience with its business-focused, highly flexible cabin design. Configurable from 12 to 29 seats, the jet supports varied functional zones such as rest, reception, conference, and dining areas, reflecting the aircraft’s customisable, premium-travel positioning.
One C919 aircraft also performed a demonstration flight, offering audiences a closer look at the aircraft’s performance capabilities.
COMAC Dubai Airshow debut
Inside the exhibition hall, COMAC presented an extensive lineup of aircraft mockups, covering the full family: C909, C919, and the long-range C929. Variants included the C909 business, medical rescue, emergency command, firefighting, and cargo configurations, as well as the C919’s shortened and extended versions. The company emphasised that this diversified portfolio is designed to meet a wide range of global aviation market needs.
Aircraft Performance and Deliveries
COMAC also released updated figures on aircraft deployment:
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C909: 78–97 seats, 2,225–3,700 km range; more than 170 delivered, operating on over 790 routes, including Southeast Asia.
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C919: 158–192 seats, 4,075–5,555 km range; 26 delivered, flying on more than 30 routes.
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C929: Baseline 280 seats, approx. 12,000 km range; development progressing steadily.
Strengthening Global Cooperation
COMAC reaffirmed its commitment to openness and international collaboration, stating it hopes to build “closer, firmer and deeper” relationships with partners worldwide. The company says this approach will support the continued growth of global civil aviation and deliver improved services for air travellers across markets.
