CATIC eyes bigger overseas aviation market

China National Aero-Technology Import and Export Corp (CATIC) has formed a framework strategic cooperation agreement with China Aviation Industry Corporation I (AVIC I) Commercial Aircraft Co Ltd on the ARJ21's overseas expansion, sources reported.

Under the agreement, the two sides will team up in a full-range business of the ARJ21, China's first homegrown regional jet, including international market development, marketing, after-sales service, technology cooperation and overseas purchasing.

The maiden flight of ARJ21-700 with 90 seats is scheduled for this September or October. And the aircraft will be delivered to the first customer in the third quarter of 2009, said AVIC I Commercial Aircraft, the manufacturer of this jet, adding that it has already received orders for 181 ARJ21 aircraft from domestic airlines companies to date.

Established in 1979, the Beijing-based CATIC is a large state-owned company mainly engaged in aviation products and technology imports and exports.