Wedoany.com Report-Sept. 10, Cambodia Airways has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (COMAC) for the planned procurement of 20 C909 aircraft, COMAC announced on Tuesday. The agreement marks a significant step in expanding the international presence of China’s domestically developed passenger jet.

The displayed C909 aircraft at the ongoing the 15th China International Aerospace Expo in Zhuhai, South China's Guangdong Province on November 12, 2024

According to COMAC’s official WeChat account, the MOU includes 10 confirmed orders and 10 intended orders. Both parties will cooperate closely on aircraft introduction, operational support, and industry development, strengthening the long-term partnership between the airline and the manufacturer.

Cambodia Airways, the flag carrier legally established by the Royal Government of Cambodia, is the only airline in the country to hold the IATA Operational Safety Audit certification. It is also the only Cambodian airline awarded a three-star Skytrax rating, COMAC noted.

The C909 is China’s first new medium- and short-range turbofan regional jet independently developed in accordance with international civil aviation regulations and supported by independent intellectual property rights. The aircraft accommodates between 78 and 97 passengers and has a range of 2,225 to 3,700 kilometers. It obtained its type certificate from the Civil Aviation Administration of China on December 30, 2014, and was granted its production license on July 9, 2017. COMAC’s official website stated that the C909 has entered route operations and continues to demonstrate strong sales performance.

This year, June 28 marked the ninth anniversary of the C909’s commercial operations. By that date, a total of 166 C909 aircraft had been delivered to the market. They are operating on more than 700 routes and have transported over 24 million passenger trips, according to Xinhua News Agency.

The C909 has also expanded steadily in Southeast Asia. Since April 18, 2023, the aircraft has been introduced into operations in Indonesia, Laos, and Vietnam. Currently, three overseas airlines—Indonesia Air, Lao Airlines, and VietJet Air—operate seven C909 jets in the region. These aircraft serve 15 routes across 18 cities and have carried more than 370,000 passenger trips.

The signing of the MOU with Cambodia Airways highlights the growing international interest in the C909 and reflects COMAC’s progress in promoting its aircraft globally. By combining technological innovation with expanding market applications, the C909 is reinforcing its role in regional aviation and contributing to enhanced connectivity in Southeast Asia.