Chinese aviation industry takes off with homegrown technology

An international airshow that concluded Sunday has displayed China's new found prowess in aviation technology, with both state-owned and private firms contributing to progress.

The 11th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition, which was held in Zhuhai, south China's Guangdong Province, featured a number of debuts for Chinese aviation technology, including the J-20 advanced stealth fighter.

"By focusing on innovation and technological breakthroughs, China has become one of the few countries to systematically develop advanced aeronautic weaponry across a wide spectrum," said Tan Ruisong, general manager of Aviation Industry Corporation of China, the conglomerate that manufactures the J-20.

The Y-20, a domestic-made transport aircraft with a maximum takeoff weight of around 200 tonnes, also took to the skies at the show.

"We have learned one thing from years of experiences: only through independent research and development can we master the most advanced technology," said Tang Changhong, chief designer of Y-20.

State-owned aircraft maker Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China was among the biggest stars at the airshow. One leasing firm ordered 40 ARJ21-700 regional jets and two others ordered 56 C919 large passenger aircraft.

While passenger aircraft still depend on foreign-made engines, the state-owned Aero Engine Corporation of China announced plans at the airshow to deal with Honeywell on a number of initiatives concerning engines.

Russia's United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) also revealed plans to cooperate with Chinese firms in developing their own engines.

"One of our key areas of cooperation will be development of aircraft engines, including the PD-35 project," said UAC President Yury Slyusar told Xinhua.

While most "Made in China" aircraft on display were from state-owned companies, private firms also brought their latest creations to the show.

Drone-maker Starloop Aviation showed off their turbine-powered drones that can be used in emergency relief and environmental monitoring.

"The national strategy of integrating military and civilian sectors has opened up opportunities for private firms to invest in the aviation industry. Drones are one of the fields where private investment can actively engage," said Tian Song, chief executive of Starloop.

"Both military and civilian sectors have made big progress," said Fu Qianshao, an aviation expert. "In the future, the biggest challenge as well as opportunity lies in innovation. Chinese aviation needs innovation to 'take off'." Endi