China: Amid virus scare, Comac’s flight test programs press ahead

Chinese airframer Comac is pushing ahead with efforts to maintain its C919 and ARJ21 test flight programs as public health officials continue to grapple with the coronavirus outbreak. Comac officials acknowledged last week that its flight test missions had become increasingly challenging under the shadow of the coronavirus, which now is taking a toll on the global economy. With many workers unable to reach facilities and offices and supply chains disrupted, China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology has begun supporting coordination among teams working under quarantine, while test facilities have implemented strict control measures to protect those involved in aircraft production and flight testing. CAAC hopes to resume a number of key civil aviation projects nationwide. <br/>