China must solve its jet engine puzzle to help COMAC challenge Boeing.
Aviation News Editor & Industry Analyst delivering clear coverage for a worldwide audience.
COMAC missed its 2025 C919 delivery targets after a brief US jet engine export ban; the shortfall highlights China's reliance on Western GE-Safran tech.
Key Takeaways
- •COMAC delivered only 15 C919 aircraft in 2025, missing its original target of 75 units by 80%.
- •A temporary US export ban on CFM LEAP-1C engines in mid-2025 caused significant production bottlenecks.
- •China's domestic CJ-1000A engine is undergoing flight tests but is not expected for mass production until 2030.
- •Supply chain reliance on Western components remains the primary hurdle for China's goal to rival Airbus and Boeing.
China is struggling to meet its aviation goals. The state-owned manufacturer COMAC faced a difficult year in 2025. It delivered only 15 of its C919 narrow-body jets. This was far below the original target of 75 planes.
The Engine Dependency Problem
The main issue is the engine. The C919 currently uses the LEAP-1C engine. This engine is made by CFM International. This is a joint venture between GE Aerospace and Safran.
In mid-2025, the US briefly banned engine exports. This happened because of trade tensions over minerals. The ban lasted only a few weeks. However, it caused massive delays for COMAC. It showed how much China relies on Western tech. Without these engines, the C919 cannot fly.
The Domestic Solution: CJ-1000A
China is working on its own engine. This is called the CJ-1000A. It is being built by the Aero Engine Corporation of China. This project is a top priority for Beijing.
Recent reports show the engine is testing well. It has been seen on military test planes. Experts think it might get certified by 2027. However, mass production may not start until 2030. Until then, COMAC must keep buying from the West.
Impact on the Global Market
China wants to break the duopoly. This means competing with Airbus and Boeing. To do this, COMAC needs a steady supply chain.
- Airlines are waiting. China Eastern and Air China need more jets.
- Production is slow. COMAC hopes to deliver 100 jets in 2026.
- Risks remain high. New trade bans could stop production again.
Building a jet engine is very hard. Only a few companies can do it. China is investing billions to join that group. Its success will decide if it can truly challenge the West in the skies.
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Written by Ujjwal Sukhwani
Aviation News Editor & Industry Analyst delivering clear coverage for a worldwide audience. Covers flight operations, safety regulations, and market trends with expert analysis.
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