A model for China's aviation future

Toronto Globe and Mail ^ | Oct. 13, 2009 | CAROLYNNE WHEELER

[ConservativeStatement]

The colourful model of a new passenger jet displayed at the Hong Kong air show was a show-stopping crowd pleaser. Not for its looks - though sleek, it was hardly ground breaking - but for what it represents: a new direction for China's fledgling aerospace industry. Commercial Aircraft Corp. of China (Comac) surprised industry experts at last month's Asian Aerospace show by unveiling details of its large-body C919 jetliner, including plans to have it in the air by 2014.

[ConservativeStatement]

I wonder if any certain US pols will be invited for the test flight.

[Dick Bachert]

The revolutionary new Chinese airliner. Extra heavy duty seatbelts and goggles available for slight extra charge but recommended only for passengers who wish to arrive at their destination.

[taillightchaser]

Well, no doubt the hildabeast and bubba will be invited. After all they sold them the technology for campaign money.

[jmcenanly]

I realize there are only so many ways to design a two engine airliner, but this plane looks familiar.

[radar101]

CHINA JET

AIRBUS

[Zetman]

It looks more like an Airbus A-320 to me - right down to the 2 emergency exits right next to each other over the wing. Seems as though China has been “borrowing” technology from Airbus.

[G-Man 1]

They have an Airbus factory being built in china now.