First COMAC C919 passenger jet, powered by LEAP-1C engines, completes maiden flight

The first Chinese-built passenger jet has made its maiden flight on May 5, 2017. The first COMAC C919, powered by CFM International’s advanced LEAP-1C integrated propulsion system, successfully completed a 79- minute first flight, marking the launch of the certification flight test program for the 150-passenger aircraft. “This is a great day for all of us,” said He Dongfang, president of COMAC. “We are very happy with the LEAP-1C engine and have been pleased to work with CFM on this program. The engines performed beautifully during today’s flight and we believe they will bring our customers the levels of fuel efficiency and reliability they will require in their daily operations.” The LEAP engine was officially launched in December 2009 when COMAC selected the LEAP-1C as the sole Western powerplant for its 150-passenger C919 airplane. The engine incorporates a unique fully-integrated propulsion system (IPS), which includes the engine, nacelle, and thrust reverser. The IPS, along with the pylon developed by COMAC, were designed in conjunction with each other, resulting in improved aerodynamics, lower weight, and easier maintenance.