Comac's C919 narrowbody programme has passed a critical design review of its central wing system.
A team of experts made the assessment on 17 January in Shanghai, after studying the programme's design situation report, technology summary and manufacturing solutions.
The experts accredited the central wing system and said that the next phase of work can now be carried out.
"The assessment shows that the C919 has made some achievements, but it still faces some challenges," says chief designer Wu Guanghui, while urging his staff to carry on with work according to airworthiness standards.
The C919 programme is due to complete its detailed design in 2013, and start comprehensive manufacturing.
The twinjet is scheduled to have its first flight in 2014, with deliveries to follow in 2016.
Source: Air Transport Intelligence news
