Comac delivered the second ARJ21-700 regional jet to Chengdu Airlines on 29 September, more than 10 months after the first delivery of the type.
Unlike the first aircraft, which was fitted with all economy seats, this jet is configured with 78-seats in two classes. Comac says the aircraft, registered B-3322, will also first be put on services between Chengdu and Shanghai, before being redeployed on other routes.
Since entering into service on 28 June, the first ARJ21 has operated 70 flights with an average load factor of above 90%. The airline now has eight pilots who are type rated for the regional jet.
The Chinese manufacturer adds however that the first ARJ21 is already undergoing a C-Check.
Comac says it is also working to gain a production certificate for the type, enhancing automation for the assembly of the aircraft and laying the foundation for it to enter mass production next year.
Last month, Comac told FlightGlobal that is on a mission to upgrade the ARJ21, following feedback from Chengdu Airlines. Items that need addressing includude reducing cabin noise, simplifying the aircraft’s warning systems, installing an aircraft crew address and reporting system, resolving a door pressure issue, as well as to make the aircraft safe for operations even in heavy rain.
FlightGlobal understands that the Civil Aviation Administration of China has also given Comac a list of seven or eight improvements it must make to the jet before it will provide a production certificate for the type. Sources say the last two rows on Chengdu Airlines’ ARJ21 have been left empty due to the loud engine noise, and that the aircraft only operates in fine weather.
Source: Cirium Dashboard
