Air China, China Southern receive their first C919 aircraft

Air China and China Southern Airlines both received their first C919 aircraft on August 28, 2024, China's state-owned news agency Xinhua reported. The airlines received the COMAC manufactured aircraft in a joint ceremony at the OEM's final assembly facility in Shanghai. Air China opted for an extended-range version of the C919, configured with 150 economy seats and nine business class seats. China Southern selected the standard range model, featuring 138 economy seats, 18 premium, and eight business. The airline said it will enter commercial service next month with it scheduled to take its maiden flight from Guangzhou to Shanghai on September 19, 2024. The aircraft officially joined China Southern Airlines' fleet as it landed at Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport on the morning of August 29, 2024. China Southern had signed for 100 C919 aircraft in April, with deliveries scheduled through to 2031. To date, COMAC has delivered nine C919 aircraft to China's big three airlines. China Eastern Airlines was the launch customer for the aircraft in May 2023. Air China's aircraft arrived at the Beijing Capital International Airport on the morning of August 29, 2024.