The company detailed that the aircraft took off at 06:52 local time from Shanghai Putong International Airport, returned to the terminal at 9:54. It performed all operations without problems and its conditions are good, the report adds.

Preparations are now progressing for further test flights and then delivery of the homegrown jetliner to China Eastern Airlines, which has signed a contract to purchase five aircraft.

The C919 will seek to compete with models such as the A320 of the French manufacturer Airbus and Boeing 737 MAX of the United States. It has 158 to 168 seats and has a flight range from 4,000 to 5,555 kilometers.

China expects to complete its development this year, after delays in the project due to the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.

According to a recent report by CGTN television, work continues after controlling the problems that arose; “it progresses in an orderly manner” and the first units should be delivered in the next few months.

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