Industry First Genghis Khan Airlines ARJ21 receives livery

There is not much known about the start-up carrier Genghis Khan Airlines: The airline might become the first regional airline in Inner Mongolia and launch operations from Hohhot Baita International Airport.

The Chinese aircraft manufacturer Comac has now revealed some pictures of the first aircraft for the new carrier: A first Comac ARJ21 has left the paint shop with a Genghis Khan Airlines livery. According to Comac, the Inner Mongolian airline will become the second operator of that aircraft type beside Chengdu Airlines, which operates six of the regional aircraft.

The aircraft has entered the phase of ground functional test, and will carry out production flight test as planned.

Mdm Ai Lihua, Vice Chairperson of Inner Mongolia, said, at the press conference on Inner Mongolia transport development held on August 20th this year, that Genghis Khan Airlines had received CAAC's recognition and approval of its preparations, and planned to start operation at the beginning of 2019. It is reported that Genghis Khan Airlines will take Hohhot Baita International Airport as the principal operation base, and has planned to build a fleet of 25 aircraft in 5 years. Chinese media reports, the start-up has ordered 25 ARJ21 and options for additional 25 aircraft.

The ARJ21-700 is a twin-engined regional jet designed for 90 passengers in a single-class configuration. The maiden flight of the aircraft took place in November 2008. Due to several delays, the ARJ21 entered into service with Chengdu Airlines in 2016.