top of page
Search

Lao Airlines takes off with China’s COMAC C909 in historic first

Lao Airlines has marked a significant milestone by taking delivery of its first COMAC C909 aircraft, becoming the latest international operator of this Chinese-manufactured regional jet.
Lao Airlines, the national carrier of Laos, operates from its main hub in Vientiane with a fleet that includes Airbus A320s, ATR turboprops, and most recently, the Chinese-made COMAC C909. While the airline is best known for connecting regional destinations like Bangkok and Hanoi, it also plays a key role in linking Laos’s remote provinces by air. What many don't know is that Lao Airlines is entirely state-owned and has quietly been modernizing its operations — even seeking financial advisors to explore joint ventures and boost tourism. Its aircraft often feature the Champa flower, a national symbol of Laos. Photo: Lao Airlines
Lao Airlines, the national carrier of Laos, operates from its main hub in Vientiane with a fleet that includes Airbus A320s, ATR turboprops, and most recently, the Chinese-made COMAC C909. While the airline is best known for connecting regional destinations like Bangkok and Hanoi, it also plays a key role in linking Laos’s remote provinces by air. What many don't know is that Lao Airlines is entirely state-owned and has quietly been modernizing its operations — even seeking financial advisors to explore joint ventures and boost tourism. Its aircraft often feature the Champa flower, a national symbol of Laos. Photo: Lao Airlines

The newly acquired C909, registered as RDPL-34229, features a single-class configuration with 90 economy seats. The aircraft's exterior proudly displays the Champa flower, Laos's national emblem, symbolizing the nation's cultural heritage.


Delivered under a lease agreement from COMAC, the aircraft is scheduled to commence operations on domestic routes starting April 12, 2025. Initially, flights will be operated with Chinese flight crew alongside Lao Airlines cabin crew.


Strategic significance for COMAC

This delivery represents a crucial step for COMAC in expanding its international footprint. Lao Airlines becomes the second Asian carrier to operate the C909, following Indonesia's TransNusa Airlines. The C909 is noted for its adaptability to Southeast Asia's operating environments, offering commendable high-temperature performance and the ability to operate on short runways.


Operational preparations and support

Prior to the aircraft's entry into service, COMAC established a dedicated team to assist Lao Airlines with essential preparations, including manual development, personnel training, material support, and maintenance capacity building. This collaborative effort aims to ensure a seamless integration of the C909 into Lao Airlines' fleet.


Key facts about Lao Airlines

Lao Airlines, established in 1976, is the national flag carrier of the Lao People's Democratic Republic. Below are key details about the airline:​


Main Hub The primary hub for Lao Airlines is Wattay International Airport, located in Vientiane, the capital city of Laos.

CEO The current Managing Director of Lao Airlines is Viengxay Singkham. 

Employees Lao Airlines employs approximately 1,000 individuals.

Fleet: As of now, Lao Airlines operates a diverse fleet comprising the following aircraft:​

  • 4 Airbus A320-214​

  • 4 ATR 72-500​

  • 3 ATR 72-600

  • 1 COMAC C909 ​

Destinations The airline serves a network of domestic and international destinations, including:​

  • Domestic: Vientiane, Luang Prabang, Pakse, Savannakhet, among others.​

  • International: Bangkok, Hanoi, Phnom Penh, Seoul, Guangzhou, and more. ​

Ownership: Lao Airlines is a state-owned enterprise, fully owned by the Ministry of Public Works and Transport of Laos.

Financial status: The airline has faced financial challenges in recent years. A World Bank assessment in June 2022 highlighted the need for enhanced corporate governance practices and financial restructuring. In early 2023, Lao Airlines sought a financial advisory firm to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of the company's overall value, aiming to inform decisions for potential joint ventures and contribute to the growth of Laos's transport and tourism sectors. 



bottom of page