Bigger and better--that's the promise of Airshow China '98, the country's official government air show to be staged for only the second time from November 17-23 at Zhuhai, China International Aviation and Aerospace Center.

The magnitude of the show--and the extent of official support from top levels of the national government, from Vice Premier Wu Bangguo to the central committee of the Communist Party-reflect the aspirations of China's aviation and space industries. Founded in 1951. Aviation Industries of China (AVIC) now employs 540,000 people throughout the country, and plans further growth into high technology after building 14,000 aircraft, 15,000 missiles and 50,000 aero engines over the last 47 years.

The country's first official showcase for its industries and market potential at Zhuhai two years ago attracted more than 400 aerospace companies from 25 countries, many of them seeking to further their relationships with Chinese partners and increase their participation in the country's burgeoning commercial sector. The Zhuhai Municipal People's Government offered 53,000 square meters of exhibition hall and a total display area of 220,000 square meters at Zhuhai International Airport adjacent to Macau and just a ferry-ride away from Hong Kong.

Plans for Airshow China '98 include improved, enlarged facilities. Among them: better air conditioning of the exhibit halls; an expansion of ramp space to 300,000 square meters; an 8,000-square-meter, four-story press center; car parking for 80,000 vehicles; and an eight-lane access highway. The organizers expect to attract more than 700 exhibitors (including 300 domestic manufacturers), and over 150 aircraft.

China continues to plan an all-round revitalization of its aerospace industry, with a target of annual growth of some 20% by the end of this century. "In the spirit of being pragmatic, we will explore new ways to realize the trans-century development of the Chinese aviation industry," said Liu Gaozhuo, vice president of AVIC.

The official publications for Airshow China are Aviation Week & Space Technology, and Aviation Week's Show News.

By John Morris