Chinese aircraft manufacturers are seeking to participate in the anticipated business jet boom in China. China Aviation Industry Corp I (AVIC I) plans to offer a corporate version of its ARJ21 regional jet, while China Aviation Industry Corp II is studying a business aircraft development.
AVIC I Commercial Aircraft Company (ACAC) president Tang Xiaoping says the organisation is marketing a VIP configured ARJ21 with around 30 seats.
"I think there will be a market in the near future," Tang says.
The first ARJ21 variant, seating 78 to 85 passengers in airline configuration, is to fly in mid-2006 and enter revenue service in 2007. Tang says the timing of development of a business jet version depends on demand.
ACAC plans to develop a larger regional jet, seating up to 105 passengers in airline configuration, which could have a corporate jet offshoot.
AVIC II vice president Xu Zhanbin says the company is looking at expanding into the business jet market.
Source: Flight International
