Comac’s ARJ21 has completed its first high-altitude flight in China, marking the regional jet’s first regular high-altitude operations.
The first flight – operated by prolific ARJ21 customer Chengdu Airlines – flew from Kashgar to Tashkurgan in China’s Xinjiang region. The flight will operate three times weekly and marks Chengdu Airlines’ first foray to Tashkurgan.
According to Comac, Tashkurgan’s airport sits at about 3,260m (10,695ft) above sea level, and is Xinjiang’s first high-altitude airport. Chinese civil aviation data also shows there to be 24 airports across the country classified as high-altitude (operating at 2,438m and higher).
The latest development also comes as Comac develops a higher altitude variant of its C919 narrowbody. Tibet Airlines is the variant’s launch customer, having placed 40 orders during the Singapore Airshow in 2024.
Meanwhile, the ARJ21 continues to expand its international presence. In mid-June, Chengdu Airlines operated the ARJ21’s first flight in Central, flying between Kashgar to Khujand in Tajikistan.
