China's C919 passenger plane makes its first commercial flight

(CLO) The Chinese-made C919 passenger plane made its first commercial flight from Hong Kong to Shanghai on January 1, marking an important milestone in China's aviation industry.

The aircraft, manufactured by Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (Comac), officially began its first international flight outside mainland China on New Year's Day.

China Eastern Airlines flight MU722 landed at Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport at 3 p.m., receiving praise from passengers for its comfort and convenience.

Comac tested its strategic narrow-body passenger aircraft C919 in Hong Kong in 2023. Photo: Hong Kong Government

Eric Huang Tiande, a 64-year-old businessman from Hong Kong, said he chose the flight because of his passion for aviation and his business relationship with Comac.

"I feel proud and very excited about the experience on the C919 aircraft. Despite some minor inconveniences in the design, such as the slightly limited luggage compartment, I am still very satisfied with the comfortable seats and service on board," he said.

“Also, I felt very comfortable with enough legroom for a 174cm tall man like me. I had no trouble reaching the power outlet with USB charging port. And I liked the in-flight entertainment,” Huang said, referring to the fixed Wi-Fi on the plane.

Passengers on the flight enjoyed modern amenities, including fixed-line Wi-Fi and a variety of entertainment options. They could watch movies, play games and learn about Shanghai destinations on their mobile devices, although they could not access the web or use instant messaging apps. The cabin crew regularly checked on passengers’ needs and provided attentive service.

In particular, passengers on the inaugural flight enjoyed a special meal, including soy salad, tuna with mushrooms, spicy ginger chicken rice, soft bread with butter and fruit, accompanied by a welcome drink of White Rabbit brand milk.

Liu Ruibo, a 16-year-old student from Nanjing, also participated in this special flight. As an aviation enthusiast, Liu expressed her pride in experiencing the flight on the large aircraft made by China: "C919 is the pride of the country. I feel honored to be part of this historic event."

Hoai Phuong (according to SCMP, Nikkei Asia)

Source: https://www.congluan.vn/may-bay-cho-khach-c919-cua-trung-quoc-thuc-hien-chuyen-bay-thuong-mai-dau-tien-post328548.html