COMAC further delays C919 test flight to 2015

Chinese Academy of Engineering and State Committee of Experts on Large Aircraft director Zhang Yanchong stated the Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China's C919 aircraft is expected to have its engine installed and undertake its maiden test flight in late 2015. The aircraft was previously scheduled to launch its maiden test flight in 2014. As reported by China News, Mr Zhang said 95% of the part design of the aircraft has been completed and has entered production phase. Assembly of the aircraft is now expected to be completed in 2014. Mr Zhang believes the C919 has better performance in safety, fuel consumption and passenger experience than the Boeing 737 and A320, adding he believes it is likely to break Boeing and Airbus' duopoly.