COMAC C919 Launches First International Route: Beijing–Ulaanbaatar Daily Flights Start August 12 (2026)
Air China starts daily C919 flights between Beijing and Ulaanbaatar on August 12, 2026 — the first international commercial route for China's homegrown passenger jet, with economy fares from ¥2,660 ($365 USD).
Key takeaway
Air China will launch daily COMAC C919 flights between Beijing Capital (PEK) and Ulaanbaatar (UBN) starting August 12, 2026. This is the first international commercial passenger route for China's domestically developed narrowbody jet. Economy fares start at 2,660 yuan (about $365 USD). Tickets are on sale now through Air China's app, website, and third-party platforms like Trip.com.
Full report
What Changed
The COMAC C919 — China’s first homegrown commercial passenger jet — will fly its first regular international route on August 12, 2026. Air China, a Star Alliance member, is deploying the aircraft on one of its three daily Beijing–Ulaanbaatar frequencies.
According to Xinhua, the outbound flight (CA901) leaves Beijing Capital at 3:00 PM and lands in Ulaanbaatar at 5:15 PM local time. The return leg (CA902) departs Ulaanbaatar at 6:30 PM and arrives back in Beijing at 8:35 PM. Total flight time is roughly 2 hours and 15 minutes.
The C919 being used seats 168 passengers across two classes. Air China confirmed that economy fares begin at ¥2,660 (approximately $365 USD) and business class at ¥3,230 (about $443 USD), as reported by AeroRoutes.
This marks a milestone for China’s aviation industry. The C919 entered domestic commercial service in May 2023 with China Eastern Airlines, flying routes between Shanghai, Beijing, and Chengdu. As of August 2026, three Chinese carriers — Air China, China Eastern, and China Southern — operate the type on domestic networks. The Ulaanbaatar route is the aircraft’s first foray outside mainland China.
What to do next
- Check your Beijing–Ulaanbaatar booking if traveling on or after August 12 to see if you are on the C919 flight. 2. Book through Air China app or Trip.com, selecting the C919-operated frequency. 3. Arrive at PEK Terminal 3 at least 90 minutes before the 3:00 PM departure.
What may vary
Aircraft assignments may change at short notice for operational reasons. Fares are dynamic — the ¥2,660 starting price may not be available on all dates. The C919 currently operates 1 of 3 daily frequencies; Air China may adjust the schedule.
FAQ
When does the C919 first international flight depart?
The first scheduled international C919 flight (Air China CA901) departs Beijing Capital (PEK) at 3:00 PM on August 12, 2026, arriving Ulaanbaatar at 5:15 PM local time.
How do I book a ticket on the C919 Beijing–Ulaanbaatar flight?
Tickets are available through Air China app, airchina.com.cn, or Trip.com. Look for aircraft type 'C919' or 'COMAC C919.' Economy fares from ¥2,660.
Is the COMAC C919 safe to fly?
Yes. The C919 received its CAAC type certificate in September 2022 and has flown domestic routes since May 2023 with three Chinese airlines. No major safety incidents have been reported as of August 2026.
Is the C919 safe to fly?
The COMAC C919 received its type certificate from the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) in September 2022 and has been in domestic commercial service since May 2023. As of August 2026, three Chinese airlines operate the type across dozens of domestic routes with no major safety incidents reported.