Cambodia’s flag carrier, Air Cambodia, has reached an agreement with Chinese aircraft manufacturer Comac to purchase 20 C909 regional jets, including 10 firm orders and 10 options.
Details of the Agreement
Air Cambodia has signed a letter of intent with China’s state-backed aircraft manufacturer, Comac (Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China), for up to 20 C909 jets.
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10 aircraft are firm orders,
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10 aircraft are included as options.
Comac announced that the agreement covers aircraft deliveries, operational support, and industry collaboration. However, details regarding the delivery schedule have not yet been disclosed.
About the C909 Model
The C909, with a capacity of 90 passengers, is known as the first jet-powered commercial passenger aircraft produced by China. The aircraft entered service for the first time in 2016 and was previously marketed under the name ARJ21.
Comac has stated that the C909 is also in operation with airlines in:
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Indonesia,
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Vietnam,
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Laos.
Lao Airlines recently received its second C909 and began cross-border flights to Bangkok this month.
Comac’s Growth Strategy
The Chinese manufacturer positions the C909 as its entry model into foreign markets. Its larger narrow-body sibling, the C919, is currently operated only by Chinese airlines and was developed as a direct competitor to the Airbus A320neo and Boeing 737 Max families.
A New Era in Regional Aviation
Air Cambodia’s order is seen as an important step supporting Comac’s growth momentum in Southeast Asia. The agreement also reflects China’s broader strategy of becoming an alternative to Western manufacturers in the regional aircraft market.
