Reviewing the milestone agreement signed in Shanghai on Sunday, July 19, 2026, Air Cambodia has officially become the first foreign national flag carrier to place a bulk order for Chinese-built commercial aircraft, agreeing to purchase 20 C909 regional jets from the Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China, Ltd. (COMAC). With the first batch scheduled for delivery and commercial entry in the second half of 2026, the acquisition is designed to help the national carrier expand its route network, increase transport capacity, and strengthen regional connectivity across Southeast Asia. Additionally, COMAC and Cambodia's State Secretariat of Civil Aviation signed a memorandum of understanding to deepen bilateral cooperation in aviation safety, airworthiness certification, and personnel training.
From an engineering and operational standpoint, the C909 (formerly known as the ARJ21) is uniquely tailored for regional aviation demands. Accommodating between 78 and 97 passengers with a robust operating range of 2,225 to 3,700 kilometers, the twin-engine jet is specifically optimized for high-temperature, high-altitude environments and short, narrow runways. Since its initial overseas debut in Indonesia in April 2023, the C909 fleet has expanded rapidly across regional markets like Laos and Vietnam, connecting 28 overseas cities and safely carrying over 1 million passenger trips. Domestically, the aircraft anchors approximately 70% of China's regional jet fleet, supported by an expanding civil aviation market that now serves 470 million air travelers—marking an increase of 160 million since 2019.
As explored in aviation and economic coverages shared by People's Daily, this landmark export order highlights the growing international competitiveness and reliability of China's advanced manufacturing sector. By deepening institutional and technical cooperation, the partnership between COMAC and Cambodian aviation authorities sets a strong benchmark for high-quality Belt and Road connectivity and regional integration.
News source: https://peoplesdaily.pdnews.cn/china/er/30052698287