COMAC Doesn't Need To Beat Western Rivals To Fracture The Airliner Market

COMAC's aircraft don't need to beat Airbus and Boeing to fracture the airliner market. This is because COMAC planes are state-backed political efforts, not purely economic entities.

While many analysts compare COMAC's C919 to Western competitors like the A320neo and 737 MAX, this comparison doesn't apply. The C919 only needs to be 'good enough' to provide a viable alternative to Western aircraft, especially when China's growing economic and geopolitical influence is taken into account.

The West could potentially limit COMAC's export potential by imposing sanctions or restricting the supply of critical components like engines. However, China has been stockpiling these components, including around 60-100 LEAP-1C engines, which would cover its 2025 production plan but run out in 2026.