AkzoNobel Aerospace Coatings takes flight on first COMAC C919
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The delivery of the first C919 to China Southern Airlines is a significant milestone for COMAC - the Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China - and the Chinese aviation industry. It is the first of its kind large passenger aircraft developed in China, and the first of its kind to feature specialist aerospace coatings from AkzoNobel.
Approximately 500 liters of AkzoNobel's aerospace coatings were used on the aircraft's engine, wings, and tail comprising eight colors to replicate China Southern Airlines’ classic livery.
AkzoNobel's expert technicians provided dedicated on-site support during the nine-day painting process, ensuring every detail of the aircraft was meticulously crafted to embody precision and excellence.
- The aircraft features the COMAC C919 identifier on its fuselage.
- The ‘C’ represents the initial of COMAC and China. The first ‘9’ symbolizes longevity, while ‘19’ reflects the aircraft's maximum seating capacity of 190 passengers.
- The tail wing showcases the classic China Southern Airlines blue, alongside the cotton flower motif.
Incorporating advanced aerodynamic design, engines and materials, this C919 is said to not only enhance the passenger experience, but also features lower carbon emissions and improved fuel efficiency, which is where AkzoNobel's aerospace coatings specifically play a crucial role.
AkzoNobel’s basecoat clearcoat system (BCCC) offers proven performance, significantly extending the durability of the aircraft's paintwork and reducing the frequency of maintenance throughout its lifecycle. Compared to ‘traditional’ paint systems, AkzoNobel's BCCC is lighter, and achieves better coverage in fewer coats, which helps reduce the aircraft's overall weight, which in turn lowers operational fuel costs. The need to use less paint and the absence of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) helps support a more sustainable aviation industry.
As the China Southern Airlines first C919 prepares to enter service, AkzoNobel's aerospace coatings production base in Dongguan is actively preparing for certification from COMAC, and anticipates it will supply coatings for future C919s by the end of the year.
AkzoNobel congratulates the Chinese aviation industry on reaching this new historical milestone and looks forward to playing its part in helping the industry to grow by continuing to provide high-quality products and services.