Lao Airlines has become the newest international operator of Comac’s C909 regional jet, after taking delivery of its first example on 31 March.
The aircraft (RDPL-34229) is on lease from Comac, and will enter service on 12 April on domestic routes, says the national carrier.
The aircraft – formerly known as the ARJ21 – is configured in a single-class layout with 90 economy seats.
Regulatory approval from the Lao civil aviation authorities for the aircraft to operate commercial flights came a little over a week earlier. In the lead-up to certification, Comac says it set up a “special team” to oversee areas such as training, manuals and MRO.
According to the carrier, the initial flights will be operated with Chinese flightcrew and Lao Airlines cabin crew.
The delivery is an important milestone for Comac’s ambition to grow its international presence.
When the C909 enters service in April, Lao Airlines will be the second Asian operator of the type, after Indonesia’s TransNusa Airlines. Low-cost carrier Vietjet is also reportedly looking to operate the C909 on a leased basis, pending regulatory approval.
Indeed, Comac says the C909 has “strong adaptability to the operating environment in Southeast Asia”, with “good high-temperature” and “short take-off and landing capabilities”.
