Story ID: 746_AirshowChina_is.doc
C919 Main Topic At Airshow China
By: William Dennis
Caption: 
Word Count: 270
The 10th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition–popularly known as Airshow China–will be held in Zhuhai, Guandong from Nov. 11-16, 2014. Started in 1996 as the Zhuhai Airshow, it has since been held biennially. It is the only international aerospace trade show in China with a flying display that is endorsed by the State Council in Beijing.

The Chinese-made Comac C919 aircraft, which will ultimately compete with the 737NG and Airbus A320, is expected to take the limelight with major orders from Chinese airlines. As of late May, the order book stood at 380.

The State Council has told Chinese airlines to support the C919. The 168-seat short- to medium-range aircraft is slated to make its first flight in 2014, with certification set for two years later. The aircraft, which is a sure bet to be on display, will be the main attraction. Almost every part of the jet, save the engine and avionics bought from GE, is being made in China.

Airbus is certain to have the A380 on display. It has projected that China will need more than 200 aircraft with 500 or more seats in the next 20 years, and the A380 is the main aircraft in this category although the Boeing 747-8 is now available as an alternative.

For A380 market growth, Airbus is chasing 5 percent worldwide and 10 percent in China. Airshow China has since 1996 been a platform for Boeing and Airbus to seal orders from Chinese carriers. Both manufacturers will be hoping for success at Zhuhai again, with half an eye to the C919 and the future potential of Comac.