Certainly one of China’s most important recurring aerospace events, Zhuhai Airshow always offers a glimpse into the trajectory of China’s aerospace industry while also showcasing exciting aircraft and technologies from all corners of the globe. Zhuhai 2014 is probably going to become most known for the expected public debut of an advanced Chinese fighter aircraft that will be similar in concept to western 5th generation fighters such as the F-22 and F-35. No doubt the major media outlets will be busy snapping their photos and shooting whatever video they can record of this new machine, but what else should demand our attention at Zhuhai 2014?
For starters, the international and Chinese domestic aviation industry continues to anxiously await the expected additional reforms and opening up of airspace in China. Additional reforms are expected by the end of 2014 which means Zhuhai may be the venue for such an announcement. Any news on this front could be far more consequential to the international aviation community than the Chinese attempt at a 5th generation fighter.
Second, COMAC is expected to announce additional orders, so the volume and type of customers COMAC announces will be very telling as to COMAC’s progress or lack thereof in internationalizing its reach. To date COMAC aircraft designs are still considerably less efficient and trusted than the current major aircraft producers such as Boeing and Airbus. In time that can all change, so the nature of the customers and details of the orders will be quite important for peering into China’s future in regional jet and major aircraft manufacturing.
Third, will the government reveal any new attitudes or positions on the reform, opening up, and expansion of aviation in China. Recent events such as the cancellation of the Civil Aviation Development Forum and the anti-corruption crackdown may indicate a government hesitancy or even opposition to fully support aviation growth in China.
Engagement opportunity is another key issue at Zhuhai this year. This is the first year that the U.S. military is participating at Zhuhai. Given the deals being discussed at APEC simultaneously with the airshow (such as relaxed visa restrictions), engagement may be on the upswing despite what other recent events seemed to have indicated. Engagement internally within China is another issue to look at, particularly the civil-military dialogue and engagement.
Finally, show me the money! Where is the money being spent? How much progress has been made in the 12th Five Year Plan… a plan that gave aviation a national level of priority for development? Will there be any indications of where China is at with its domestic aviation infrastructure and meeting its goals?
Of course there are numerous other important issues that will probably catch our attention as the week progresses. The exhibition is sure to unveil new progress from Chinese and other international aerospace players, but all the equipment in the world isn’t worth their value if they can’t be used effectively. For this reason it is the policy issues the Alta Center for Chinese Aerospace Studies will be monitoring most closely. Enjoy the show whether you’re experiencing it in person or virtually. Its an exciting time to be following Chinese aerospace. More to follow after the event concludes.
