Following last week’s easing of civilian flights in restricted airspace, the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) announced on Sunday that it would relax requirements for private pilot licenses.
With the strong cachet of private flying in the country, analysts expect pent-up demand to result in a stampede of growth for general aviation. China’s current five-year plan lists developing its general aviation industry close behind the automotive industry in priority, as evidenced by aggressive investment in established U.S. manufacturers such as Cirrus, Mooney and Continental Motors. Some have suggested that China could eclipse the U.S. in general aviation activity in less than 10 years.
