The C919 first arrives at Hangzhou International Airport in September. [Photo/WeChat account: hzfbwx]

Hangzhou-based Xizi United Holdings Limited, or Xizi UHC, has secured a major contract for the assembly and parts manufacturing for the mid-fuselage, including the central wing, of China's domestically developed C919 passenger jet.

This achievement makes Xizi the only private enterprise and the third supplier, alongside State-owned giants AVIC Xi'an Aircraft Industry Group and COMAC Shanghai Aircraft Manufacturing Co, in this high-tech domain.

The mid-fuselage, weighing about 3 metric tons and comprising over 8,000 parts and 120,000 standard components, is among the most complex and challenging aircraft structures. The C919, China's first large jetliner developed to international airworthiness standards, represents a milestone in the nation's aerospace ambitions.

Since winning its first contract for C919 cabin doors in 2009, Xizi UHC has established itself as a top-tier supplier to global giants like Airbus and Boeing, with 344 special process certifications. To meet growing demand, the company plans to invest over 1 billion yuan ($138 million) in new production lines, aiming to achieve an annual output of 100 mid-fuselages by 2027 with advanced digital and intelligent manufacturing capabilities.

The C919 project embodies China's push for technological independence in advanced manufacturing. As Hangzhou emerges as a key production hub for domestic aircraft components, this success highlights the city's thriving innovation ecosystem and its role in building a strong manufacturing base.

The factory of Xizi UHC in Hangzhou. [Photo/WeChat account: hzfbwx]