Malaysia Airlines retains the COMAC C919 as a potential narrowbody replacement for the mid-2030s, contingent exclusively on securing EASA and FAA airworthiness certification. Bryan Foong, CEO of airline business at Malaysia Aviation Group, stated Western certification is the preferred milestone before any order consideration, noting current CAAC approval limits global operational viability. With EASA validation unlikely before 2028–2031 and FAA certification not actively pursued, the airline’s 2035+ acquisition window aligns with projected regulatory clearance timelines. The C919, powered by CFM LEAP engines and holding over 1,200 orders domestically, remains excluded from international markets without Western type certificates. Foong expressed confidence in eventual EASA endorsement but emphasized the airline will not commit until certification is accepted across all countries it serves.