We almost discuss every week about the competition coming from China. Air China is closely watching the rise of COMAC (China Commercial Aircraft Corporation).
According to a report by AFP on October 14, Lars Wanger, CEO of Airbus Commercial Aircraft, said on Wednesday: 'They are investing heavily in green hydrogen energy, manufacturing, robotics, and automation.' Additionally, they have already begun reducing the proportion of Western components in the C919 aircraft.
The C919 is a medium-haul airliner that competes with Airbus A320 and Boeing 737.
Wagner made these statements at a press conference held in Toulouse, France. This conference was part of Airbus's two-day commercial aircraft event.
Reports say that this has also put additional pressure on this European aviation manufacturing giant, forcing it to strive to launch its next-generation commercial aircraft project by 2030.
He said, “We have also learned from other industries that once China decides to incorporate something into its five-year strategic plan, it will be implemented.”
He refers to the electric vehicle industry. With its advantages in battery production, China has taken a leading position in this field, posing a challenge to car manufacturers in Europe and America.
Wagner pointed out that research by Airbus and other organizations predicts that by 2045, the number of aircraft worldwide will double to 42,000. Considering the current delivery volume of Airbus and Boeing, these two duopolies, it is “clear that there is still room for further market development to meet this growing demand”.
He also said, "There is room for growth for both of us." He believes that China has the industrial capabilities to produce aircraft developed independently and to 'sell' them.
He said, “I won’t say that I am very worried, but we are closely monitoring the situation and hope to remain in first place.”
