In a strategic move to deepen its presence in Southeast Asia, the Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China ( Comac) recently launched two new offices in Hong Kong and Singapore, signaling a major step in its international expansion efforts. These offices are expected to drive COMAC’s goal of establishing a robust support network for its aircraft in Southeast Asia and the Greater Bay Area, providing enhanced customer service, technical support, and market outreach in the region.
Photo: Comac
Strengthening Southeast Asia ties with the Singapore office
On October 28, COMAC inaugurated its Asia-Pacific Office in Singapore. The opening ceremony was attended by prominent officials, including Chinese Ambassador to Singapore Cao Zhongming, Singapore’s Economic Development Board Deputy Director Pang Ming Guang, and COMAC Board Director Tan Wangeng. This new office is set to be a regional base for sales and technical support, aiming to introduce the ARJ21 and C919 aircraft to Southeast Asian airlines. Tan expressed that locating in Singapore allows COMAC to stay close to potential and existing clients, providing comprehensive service and support. “We hope to foster innovation and progress in the global aviation sector,” he remarked.
The Southeast Asian market is essential for COMAC’s international strategy. Currently, COMAC’s ARJ21 has one overseas operator, Indonesia’s TransNusa Airlines, which has received three ARJ21 aircraft. TransNusa’s recent launch of a direct Manado-Guangzhou route, the longest commercial route flown by the ARJ21, highlights the potential for COMAC’s aircraft to support long-haul regional connections within and beyond Southeast Asia.
Photo: Comac
COMAC’s collaboration with Hong Kong and Singapore has shown signs of growth over the past year. Last December, COMAC showcased the C919 in a flight demonstration over Hong Kong’s Victoria Harbour, captivating the local audience. In February, both the C919 and ARJ21 aircraft participated in the Singapore Airshow, performing flight demonstrations that attracted widespread attention. The Singapore office thus plays a crucial role in positioning COMAC to attract more regional clients and broaden its market footprint.
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Building a customer service network through the Hong Kong office
Just two days after the Singapore opening, COMAC held a ceremony on October 30 to mark the launch of its Customer Service Office in Hong Kong. The event was attended by representatives from the Hong Kong and Chinese governments, along with VP of COMAC VP & Chairwoman of COMAC Customer Service Company Li Ling. This office is designed to strengthen after-sales support for Southeast Asian and domestic customers, making Hong Kong a vital link in COMAC’s service network.
On the same day, COMAC’s Shanghai Aircraft Customer Service Co., Ltd. (SACSC) signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Hong Kong Aircraft Engineering Company ( HAECO) to collaborate on maintenance services. This MOU aims to expand support for COMAC aircraft, including the ARJ21 and C919, through enhanced maintenance capabilities and technical expertise. HAECO has been a key partner, offering services from base maintenance to parts support, including the C919’s escape slides. HAECO’s CEO Richard Kendall noted,
“This cooperation underscores our commitment to COMAC, their customers, and the broader aviation industry. We look forward to deepening our relationship.”
With these two offices, COMAC reinforces its commitment to expanding its international footprint and providing quality support to clients across Asia. This dual-office strategy in Hong Kong and Singapore underscores COMAC’s confidence in the Southeast Asian market, and the company’s vision of integrating its aircraft into the region’s commercial aviation landscape, advancing both China’s aviation manufacturing presence and regional economic development.
Photo: COMAC
