COMAC Takes Flight: Hong Kong Office Launch Highlights Global Expansion Efforts

Chinese planemaker COMAC has opened its Hong Kong office, marking the company's second overseas expansion this week. The new office is part of COMAC's strategy to enter the global passenger jet market amidst challenges faced by Boeing and Airbus. COMAC aims for international partnerships and increased market presence.

Chinese planemaker COMAC announced on Thursday the inauguration of its new office in Hong Kong, marking the company's second international expansion within a week. This initiative is seen as a strategic move to penetrate the global passenger jet market amid struggles faced by industry giants like Boeing and Airbus in meeting rising demand.

The Hong Kong office launch follows the recent establishment of COMAC's Asia-Pacific office in Singapore. Officials quoted deputy general manager Li Ling as emphasizing the significance of this development in strengthening COMAC's international strategy. While Hong Kong maintains its unique civil aviation regulator, no local airlines currently operate COMAC planes, though two C919 demonstration flights have recently been conducted in the city.

In a key development, Hong Kong's airport authority has agreed to support international flight operations for COMAC's C919 aircraft. Additionally, COMAC has expanded its collaboration with Hong Kong-based aircraft maintenance company HAECO to enhance services for domestic and international clients. Despite these steps toward global expansion, industry sources suggest COMAC remains distant from securing pivotal certifications from the European Union and United States, crucial for its international recognition and growth.

(With inputs from agencies.)