Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (COMAC) and CFM International today announced the launch of the LEAP-X1C-powered C919.

Air China, China Eastern, China Southern, Hainan Airlines, CDB Leasing Company, and GE Capital Aviation Services (GECAS) have ordered a combined total of 100 new aircraft with first deliveries scheduled for 2016.

"We are obviously honored by the strong show of support from China's major airlines evidenced by these launch orders," said Eric Bachelet, president and CEO of CFM International. "All of them are long-time CFM customers and we look forward to embarking on this exciting new era with them. Over the next few years, we will work closely with COMAC to develop the engine and certify the C919. Ultimately, we look forward to providing these customers with a very smooth entry into service in 2016."

COMAC selected CFM's advanced new LEAP-X engine as the sole western powerplant for the C919 in December 2009. COMAC has forecasted global sales of more than 2,000 C919 aircraft over the 20 years following entry into service. The two companies are nearing the completion of the joint definition phase and CFM is on schedule to freeze the LEAP-X design by the end of 2011 and the first full LEAP-X engine will go on test in early 2013.

COMAC has opted for a complete Integrated Propulsion System (IPS) for the C919. CFM will provide the engine and, in partnership with Nexcelle*, the nacelle and thrust reverser to deliver a complete IPS solution to COMAC.

CFM, a 50/50 joint company between Snecma (Safran group) and GE, is the world's largest commercial aircraft engine manufacturer. In 2008, the two companies renewed the partnership to the year 2040.