Southwest China's Yunnan Province is actively working to establish a comprehensive and convenient air traffic service system for the tourism industry.

Shao Qiwei, vice governor of the province, said at a recent provincial work conference on tourism that the province will start construction of two new airports this year.

In addition, 10 airports will be constructed in the next 20 years, Shao said. So far, 10 of the sixteen cities and prefectures in Yunnan have set up airports.

Yunnan has an air fleet of 20 Boeing 737 and 747, providing service on routes to 70 domestic cities and international destinations in Japan and southeast Asian countries.

According to the official, the province has signed a contract with a Canadian company to purchase six more aircraft. Moreover, helicopter service will also be adopted for air transportation.

At the same time, the province will open more domestic and international air routes linking its famous tourist cities with the world.

(People’s Daily 03/09/2001)