COMAC has successfully completed the first manned flight of its 10-ton class electric commercial aircraft, the CE-25A, in Binzhou, Shandong. The flight carried two pilots and one test engineer, with all systems performing as expected. This milestone follows the aircraft's initial unmanned test flight conducted on February 2, 2026.
The CE-25A is designed for intercity commercial travel, featuring a capacity for 19 passengers. It has a maximum takeoff weight of 10 tons, a cruising speed of 300 km/h, and an operational range of 400 km at a cruising altitude of 2,400 meters. The aircraft utilizes a distributed electric propulsion system with 10 electric ducted fans integrated into the wings.
The project is a collaboration between COMAC, CATL, and Shanghai Jiao Tong University. In July 2023, these partners established COMAC CATL (Shanghai) Aviation Co., Ltd., with COMAC and CATL each holding a 47% stake. The aircraft is powered by condensed-state batteries with an energy density of 500 Wh/kg, designed to meet strict aviation safety and lifespan standards.
The recent test focused on the integration of human pilots with autonomous flight systems, allowing for pilot monitoring and intervention. Prior to this, the aircraft completed 19 unmanned test flights and ground taxiing tests in late October 2026. The Civil Aviation Administration of China has accepted the type certificate application, marking the beginning of the formal airworthiness certification process.
