Airbus faces growing competition from China's Comac, which aims to challenge European and American dominance in aviation with its C919 and upcoming C929 aircraft.
Airbus watches Comac's progress closely
Airbus is keeping a close eye on Comac, a Chinese aircraft manufacturer, which is already competing with Airbus' A320 family through its C919 single-aisle jet. Comac is also working on the C929, a wide-body aircraft intended to challenge Airbus and Boeing in the long-haul market. Comac's influence on Airbus strategy
Lars Wagner, head of commercial aircraft at Airbus, said that Comac's advancements are a frequent topic of discussion at the company. He noted that China is investing heavily in green hydrogen, robotics, and automation, which are helping Comac reduce its reliance on Western components in the C919. Airbus sees no immediate threat
Despite Comac's growth, Airbus does not view it as an immediate threat to its leadership. Wagner said the company is focused on maintaining its position but is not overly concerned. He added that the growing aviation industry provides room for new players to enter the market. Comac expands into long-haul flights
The C919 has already secured a place in the single-aisle market, but Comac is aiming higher. The C929, still in development, is designed to compete with Airbus A330neo and Boeing 787. It is expected to carry 280 passengers over a range of 12,000 kilometers, though these details are still tentative. C929's origins and challenges
The C929 project began as a joint venture between Comac and the Russian UAC group, known as CRAIC. However, Russian involvement ended in 2023 due to Western sanctions, complicating engine choices and supplier relations. The propulsion system remains a key challenge for the program. Comac's broader goals
For Comac, the C929 is part of a strategy to cover multiple segments of the aviation industry. The company already produces the C919 and the regional C909, and the C929 aims to expand its reach into long-haul travel, reducing reliance on a single aircraft model. Airbus plans next-gen A320 successor
Airbus is preparing the next version of the A320 family, aiming to launch it around 2030 with service expected by the end of the 2030s. The company wants to maintain its technological edge and ensure its aircraft remain competitive for decades. Engine choice is critical
The selection of an engine will shape the design of the new A320 successor. Airbus is considering both traditional engines and the "open fan" design from CFM International, which promises better fuel efficiency. However, the decision must be made by 2028 or 2029. Airbus resists delays
Lars Wagner emphasized that Airbus is not delaying the launch of its next single-aisle aircraft due to engine choices. The company is committed to its schedule, even as it evaluates different technologies to ensure long-term competitiveness. Comac's ambitions extend beyond competition
Airbus' challenge is not just to respond to the C919 but to develop an aircraft that can stay ahead for many years. Meanwhile, Comac continues to build its industrial base and expand its product line, with the C929 representing its push into long-haul travel, despite remaining technical hurdles.
