China's first large domestically made passenger aircraft is due to take its maiden flight, mounting a major challenge to Boeing and Airbus. The plane is a key symbol of Beijing's soaring ambitions to enter the global aviation market. The jet by state-owned firm Comac has been planned since 2008 but the flight was repeatedly pushed back. It's estimated that the global aviation market will be worth $2tn (£1.55tn) over the next 20 years. The plane is scheduled to take off from Shanghai's Pudong International Airport later on Friday.

Source: The Star May 05, 2017 03:11 UTC