China’s indigenously built C919 narrow-body aircraft has concluded its fourth round of high-speed taxiing test at Pudong International Airport in Shanghai.

Developed to cater to the single-aisle aircraft market, the newly concluded test marks the last step before its upcoming maiden flight that is expected by the end of next month.

The C919 lifted its nose into the air to simulate takeoff during the test, which was carried out at speeds between 230km/h and 260km/h, Shanghai Daily reported.

Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (COMAC) is involved in the development of the aircraft, which has 168 seats and a range of 5,000km.

“The test marks the C919 has finished all necessary taxiing tests before its maiden flight.”

Once completed, the C919 aircraft is expected to compete with its European and US rivals, Airbus’ A320 and Boeing’s new generation 737-800 jets, respectively.

COMAC chief designer and deputy general manager Wu Guanghui said: “The test marks the C919 has finished all necessary taxiing tests before its maiden flight.”

According to another COMAC official, the speed and height of the lifted front landing gear of C919 were successfully tested in the recently concluded trial.

The pilots have also confirmed the plane’s ability to stop safely on the runway in case of emergency.

With the latest test, the C919 has completed all the necessary tests required for its certification. Last week, it has passed its final expert assessment, reported Shanghai Daily.

COMAC is also involved in the development of ARJ21, a turbofan short and medium-range regional jet designed and manufactured in China.