DBEA55AED16C0C92252A6554BC1553B2 Clicky DBEA55AED16C0C92252A6554BC1553B2 Clicky
November 1, 2024
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Yesterday the C919 took to the skies again.  This was the fourth test flight since the first one on May 5.  Compared to other flight test programs, especially the western variety, this is a sedate pace.  One can hope the short period between flight #3 and #4 is a sign of the times and that tests will accelerate.

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The fourth test flight was about three and a quarter hours.  The flight profile was not aggressive. That said, the crew did push it a bit more compared to flight #3.

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The third flight was also rather genteel.

flight3

Compare these to the MC-21 flight tests and you can see what we mean about flight test profiles.  The Mc-21 program has gone higher and faster.  The MC-21 flights have also been longer.  Both the C919 and MC-21 are clean-sheet designs from, effectively, new OEM teams.  Though some would argue the Russians have more experience, we think the MC-21 team is new and this is the first program to emerge from the combined UAC.  This, in our view, means one can compare them and the approaches being taken.

CAAC does have strict oversight of flight tests.  This could explain the cautious approach.

author avatar
Addison Schonland
Co-Founder AirInsight. My previous life includes stints at Shell South Africa, CIC Research, and PA Consulting. Got bitten by the aviation bug and ended up an Avgeek. Then the data bug got me, making me a curious Avgeek seeking data-driven logic. Also, I appreciate conversations with smart people from whom I learn so much. Summary: I am very fortunate to work with and converse with great people.

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