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KOTA KINABALU: Malaysia’s Transport Minister Anthony Loke says Southeast Asia’s growing air travel demand and delivery backlogs from Airbus and Boeing are sparking regional interest in China’s Comac C919 jet.

Chinese manufacturer Comac is positioning its C919, the country’s first home-grown narrow body airliner, as a cheaper, faster alternative to Western-built aircraft.

Loke confirmed that budget carrier AirAsia and new airline Air Borneo are amongst those exploring options with Comac.

“All airlines are looking for faster delivery and more affordable options. There’s a long wait for Airbus and Boeing aircraft. Comac is definitely being considered," Loke told the South China Morning Post.

He added that AirAsia has expressed interest, but no deals have been finalised and he is not involved in the commercial discussions.