Chinese premier Li Keqiang has called on Germany to help with China's push towards securing type certification for its in-development C919 narrowbody from the European Aviation Safety Agency.
This was reported by state-owned media Xinhua, during Li's official visit to Berlin where he met with German chancellor Angela Merkel.
Comac applied for type certification of the C919 with EASA last year via the Civil Aviation Administration of China. Last month, the manufacturer disclosed that EASA has started work on the C919 approval, having visited its Shanghai facility to examine the manufacturing process.
The C919 took its first flight on 5 May, more than seven years after the programme was first launched. Comac has so far secured commitments for 570 of the type, although largely from Chinese airlines and leasing companies.
The manufacturer's approach to EASA shows it ambition for the jet to not be constrained by China's borders. It also confirms Comac's break away from seeking the co-operation of the US Federal Aviation Administration, which has yet to certify the ARJ21 regional jet despite years spent shadowing the CAAC.
Comac is targeting for the C919 to achieve certification and enter into service in 2020-2021.
Source: Cirium Dashboard
