Air Cambodia has officially signed a purchase agreement with COMAC to acquire up to twenty C909 regional jets, marking the first time a foreign flag carrier has placed a bulk order for the Chinese-manufactured aircraft. Deliveries are scheduled to begin in the second half of 2026, following a memorandum of understanding initially announced in September 2025.
Expanding the C909 Footprint in Southeast Asia
The deal, finalized in Shanghai on July 17, 2026, includes 10 firm orders and 10 options for the C909. While the aircraft is a staple in the domestic Chinese market, its presence outside the country remains limited. Currently, only two other operators fly the type: TransNusa, which operates five, and Lao Airlines, which operates two.
Did you know?
The C909 is produced by COMAC.
Government Support and Infrastructure Development
The acquisition extends beyond hardware. Cambodia’s State Secretariat of Civil Aviation has signed a separate memorandum of understanding with COMAC to facilitate the integration of these aircraft into the local aviation ecosystem. This partnership focuses on critical operational pillars, including infrastructure, maintenance training, and talent development for aviation personnel.
According to a social media statement from the office of Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet, the government has committed to coordinating between COMAC and relevant national ministries to ensure a smooth fleet entry. This institutional support is intended to bolster the long-term viability of the C909 fleet within the country’s growing aviation sector.
Air Cambodia’s Fleet Modernization Strategy
The decision to bring the C909 into the fleet follows a broader modernization effort by Air Cambodia. The carrier currently operates a mixed fleet of six aircraft: two Airbus A320-200s, one A321-200, and three ATR72-600 turboprops. In addition to the new COMAC order, the airline maintains a firm order for ten Boeing 737-8 aircraft, signaling a push to scale both its narrowbody and regional capacity.
Comparison of Regional Jet Integration
| Airline | C909 Units | Status |
|---|---|---|
| TransNusa | 5 | Active |
| Lao Airlines | 2 | Active |
| Air Cambodia | Up to 20 | On Order |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the C909 aircraft?
The C909 is a regional jet manufactured by COMAC.
When will Air Cambodia receive its first C909?
Deliveries for the firm orders are scheduled to commence in the second half of 2026.
Is Air Cambodia the only international operator of the C909?
No, TransNusa and Lao Airlines currently operate the aircraft, but Air Cambodia is the first foreign flag carrier to place a bulk order of this scale.
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