Report: China To Reach 20,000 GA Aircraft by 2035

China’s general aviation aircraft population is expected to reach 20,000 by 2035, according to a recently released white paper by the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC). As of last year, the country had approximately 3,000 general aviation aircraft registered. Between 2010 and 2017, annual general aviation flight hours in the country more than doubled, from 370,000 to 840,000 hours. By 2035, the general aviation fleet is predicted to log more than six million flight hours annually.

The document noted that China’s general aviation industry has seen significant changes, as short-distance transportation, low-altitude airspace tourism, and business trips are increasing rapidly. AVIC believes the segment will enjoy a growth spurt over the next five to 10 years as the country pushes forward reform, delegating powers, strengthening compliance oversight, and improving government services.

By 2020 alone, China expects its general aviation market to be worth more than $153 billion, with 5,000 general aviation aircraft, including helicopters and private jets, in the country. A guideline issued by China's State Council has decreed that the country will have more than 500 general aviation airports by that time.