Zhejiang Loong

Loong Air maintains a generally favorable safety profile. The airline operates in compliance with Chinese civil aviation requirements.

• Recent safety record and any notable incidents (or lack thereof): Loong Air is considered a safe airline and has not experienced any major accidents or significant safety issues. However, minor incidents have been reported, including an Airbus A320-251N experiencing an engine shutdown mid-air due to an oil filter component leak on December 8, 2024, which resulted in no fatalities or aircraft damage. Earlier incidents include a Boeing 737-300 freighter bursting two right main tires on takeoff in 2015 and an A320 needing to return to Hangzhou in 2016.
• Regulatory certifications (IOSA, FAA compliance, EU safety list status): The search results do not explicitly confirm Loong Air's IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) certification. However, the airline adheres to Chinese civil aviation safety standards. There is no information indicating FAA compliance, which is typically relevant for airlines operating to and from the United States. Importantly, Loong Air is not included on the EU Air Safety List, which means it is permitted to operate within European Union airspace. The EU Air Safety List bans or restricts airlines deemed not to meet international safety standards.
• Fleet age and maintenance reputation: Loong Air operates a young fleet of Airbus aircraft, with an average age of 5.4 years as of February 2024. The airline has its own maintenance facilities and subsidiaries for aircraft maintenance. It also partners with reputable Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) providers, such as HAECO, which recently signed a contract to provide line maintenance services for Loong Air's fleet at Hong Kong International Airport. This indicates a commitment to professional maintenance standards.
• Overall safety assessment based on available data: Based on the available information, Loong Air demonstrates a solid commitment to safety. It operates a modern and young fleet, maintains its aircraft through its own facilities and trusted partners, and adheres to the safety regulations of Chinese civil aviation. Its absence from the EU Air Safety List further supports its adherence to international safety benchmarks.
• Any safety awards or recognitions: No specific safety awards or recognitions were identified in the provided search results.