COMAC has announced that it will deliver Genghis Khan Airlines' first ARJ21-700 by the end of 2018, with operations for the carrier to start early next year.

However, the airframer did not give specific dates for the delivery. It adds that the aircraft will help develop regional aviation in the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region.

Flight Fleets Analyzer shows that the start-up airline has an orderbook of 25 ARJ21-700s, which are expected to be delivered over the next five years.

A report by state news agency Xinhua previously indicated that in the same timeframe, Genghis Khan will look to operate 60 routes, connecting 40 destinations in northern China's Inner Mongolia autonomous region.

Genghis Khan was rebranded from Tianjiao Airlines, and will be based at Hohhot Baita International airport.

"The Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region has a long and narrow geographical area and a vast territory," says Comac. "The towns in the region are scattered and far apart. There are many small and medium-sized airports, which have the advantage of developing regional aviation. The ARJ21-700 aircraft has good adaptability in the alpine and highland areas, and can meet the conditions for take-off and landing of airports... The signing of the purchase agreement marks a new step in the development of the ARJ21-700 aircraft market."

Source: Cirium Dashboard