Domestic MRO Capacity Strengthens as COMAC Aircraft Deliveries Increase
BEIJING — China is accelerating the expansion of its aircraft maintenance and repair infrastructure to support the growing fleets of domestically developed C919 and C909 passenger jets, reinforcing the country’s long-term strategy to strengthen its civil aviation sector and reduce dependence on overseas maintenance services.
The expansion comes as the Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (COMAC) increases deliveries of both aircraft models across domestic and regional markets. The enhanced maintenance ecosystem is expected to improve operational reliability, reduce turnaround times, and provide airlines with greater technical support as fleet utilization rises across Asia.
Operators currently deploying the aircraft include Air China (CA) at Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU), along with Southeast Asian carriers such as TransNusa (8B), VietJet (VJ), and Lao Airlines (LK), all of which are actively using the C909 on regional routes.
COMAC has expanded its maintenance support network through partnerships with regional and international maintenance providers. Key service hubs now include Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) and Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport (XMN), where maintenance capability for landing gear systems and major aircraft components has recently been upgraded.
Maintenance Expansion Reflects Rising Fleet Demand
Hong Kong and Xiamen Become Strategic Support Centers
China’s maintenance expansion is centered on building localized maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) capabilities for the country’s growing commercial aviation sector.
Hong Kong Aircraft Engineering Company Limited (HAECO), a Swire Group subsidiary associated with Cathay Pacific (CX), recently completed its first C909 landing gear overhaul in Xiamen. The development marks a significant milestone in China’s effort to establish broader technical servicing capabilities for domestically produced aircraft.
Industry analysts say the expansion of regional servicing centers is becoming increasingly important as COMAC ramps up aircraft production and delivery schedules. Localized maintenance services are expected to reduce reliance on overseas facilities while improving efficiency for airlines operating the aircraft.
The broader MRO strategy also aligns with China’s push to strengthen supply chain resilience and establish a more self-sufficient aviation support network.
Engine Maintenance Capability Expands for C919 Program
Chengdu Facility Receives Certified Leap Engine Support Status
China has also moved to expand engine maintenance capabilities tied to the C919 narrow-body aircraft program.
The Leap-1C engine, developed by CFM International, is now receiving certified support in Chengdu through Sichuan Service Aeroengine Maintenance, a joint venture involving Air China (CA).
The Chengdu facility has become the first premier CFM-certified MRO partner in China for Leap engines. The certification is expected to streamline inspections and maintenance procedures for C919 operators while reducing aircraft downtime and associated operating costs.
The development is viewed as a critical step for the long-term sustainability of the C919 program, particularly as airlines seek faster turnaround times and more predictable maintenance schedules.
Airwefly analyst Jason Zheng was quoted by the South China Morning Post as saying:
“For years, the global aviation industry [has been] bogged down in prolonged engine maintenance cycles and high costs and Comac jets and their users are not immune”
Analysts note that engine maintenance bottlenecks have affected airlines globally in recent years, making localized certified repair capability increasingly valuable for operators managing expanding fleets.
Fleet Growth Drives Long-Term Support Strategy
As of May, more than 180 C909 aircraft and 37 C919 aircraft had been delivered and entered service. The growing number of aircraft in operation is increasing demand for maintenance infrastructure capable of supporting higher flight utilization across China and neighboring Asian markets.
Industry observers say the expanding domestic MRO network could significantly reduce engine turnaround times that previously required lengthy overseas servicing processes. Improved maintenance efficiency is expected to increase aircraft availability and operational reliability for airlines.
China’s broader aviation strategy also includes ongoing cooperation agreements with international aircraft and engine manufacturers, aimed at ensuring long-term fleet support and supply chain stability.
With fleet expansion continuing, analysts say localized maintenance capability is emerging as a central pillar of China’s commercial aviation ambitions, supporting both operational resilience and the global competitiveness of COMAC aircraft programs.
