Aircraft
Chinese Aerospace Still Behind in Fulfilling Big Ambitions
China’s state-controlled aerospace industries juggle multiple development programs
China's Comac group has yet to complete certification of the delayed ARJ21 regional airliner even as it struggles to overcome delays on its larger C919 program. (Photo: Guillaume Lecompte-Boinet)
China's Comac group has yet to complete certification of the delayed ARJ21 regional airliner even as it struggles to overcome delays on its larger C919 program. (Photo: Guillaume Lecompte-Boinet)

Last week’s Airshow China in Zhuhai left visitors with little doubt about the scope of China’s ambitions in the aerospace sector. In addition to the three new airliners under development by the country’s state-controlled airframers—the C919 narrowbody, and ARJ21 and MA700 regional airliners—multiple programs for new general aviation aircraft and helicopters have gotten under way. China’s leading OEM, Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (Comac), projected a high profile at the show, but once again seemed unwilling to provide clear updates on the timelines for several of its delayed programs.