Asman Airlines, the national carrier of Kyrgyzstan, is evaluating the potential acquisition of COMAC C909 and C919 jet aircraft. The airline's parent company, Airports of Kyrgyzstan, confirmed that the parties are currently assessing the operational economics of these models and exploring the necessary certification procedures within the country.
The certification process requires close cooperation with the State Civil Aviation Agency of Kyrgyzstan to validate the type certificates for both Chinese aircraft. Without this formal recognition, commercial operations of the C909 and C919 by local carriers remain impossible. Representatives from Asman Airlines plan to visit COMAC facilities in Shanghai for further negotiations.
The current fleet of Asman Airlines consists of three De Havilland Dash 8-400 turboprops, with the delivery of a fourth unit currently delayed. To expand its route network, the company requires a jet fleet. While the airline has previously expressed interest in Russian models such as the SJ-100 and MS-21, delays in their production have prompted the search for alternatives.
Despite the interest in Chinese aircraft, the airline has already signed an agreement to acquire two Airbus A321ceo planes. The company aims to increase its fleet of these Airbus jets to ten units over the next five years. Negotiations with COMAC are currently in the preliminary assessment phase and do not constitute a firm order.
