AIM Altitude, the New Zealand Civil Aviation Authority, and New Zealand Trade & Enterprise, have welcomed the Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China, Ltd. (COMAC) delegation to the Altitude offices in Auckland for collaboration discussions.
The information exchange included understanding AIM Altitude’s broad experience over many years and its capability in designing, certifying and manufacturing aircraft interior products. New Zealand aviation regulations and COMAC’s new ARJ21 and C919 jets also formed part of the briefing.
At the conclusion of the meeting, all parties felt the discussion had been productive and conducive towards entering into a collaborative partnership. It is expected that during Airshow China in November, AIM Altitude and COMAC will meet and continue these discussions.
The prospect of AIM Altitude working with COMAC on design and engineering aspects on the ARJ21 and C919, as well as manufacturing interior monuments, builds on AIM Altitude’s existing capability as a supplier to leading OEM’s such as Boeing and Airbus.
Michael Pervan, Managing Director of AIM Altitude’s division in New Zealand, said: “We were delighted to host the senior delegation from COMAC. This, we hope, is the start of a mutually beneficial partnership between our two companies. Both of COMAC’s future jet aircraft are exciting new platforms to enter the aviation industry and we hope to support their launch by COMAC with our world-class engineering and design capability.”
Mr He Dongfeng, COMAC President, replied: “COMAC is encouraged by the communication so far and looks forward to exploring potential collaborations in interior and industrial design to deliver a win-win result.”
Graeme Harris, Director of New Zealand Civil Aviation Authority, commented: “NZCAA were pleased to be involved in this meeting between two well-respected companies in the global aviation industry. We are looking forward to further discussions with both parties, and are supportive of any efforts that contribute to a diverse aviation industry in New Zealand where safety is paramount and enterprise flourishes.”