Business & GA

Shanghai Airport Authority has signed a memorandum of understanding with Australian business aviation services provider Hawker Pacific to build a business aircraft hub at Hongqiao International airport. The move is designed to exploit the growing demand for business aviation in the region.

The facility will accommodate 6,000 business aircraft movements annually, say the developers, and the first phase of construction is due for completion in 2008. It will provide ground, repair and maintenance services for business aircraft, as well as aircraft hangarage.

"Construction of the base is aimed at perfecting the function of airports in Shanghai, where demand for business aviation facilities is rising," says the Shanghai Airport Authority. It adds: "Although China's business aviation sector lags far behind Western countries, the potential is enormous given the nation's vibrant economic growth."