Authorities from the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) predict China will import between 100 and 150 airplanes each year over the next five years.

The country's civil aviation industry will continue to maintain a high rate of growth during the 11th Five-Year Plan (2006-2010), thanks to the rapid and sustained development of the country's economy.

By the end of 2010, China is expected to have nearly 1,600 civilian aircraft, 700 more than it has this year.

More than 40 new civilian airports will built to bring the total number of such airports to 187 in 2010.

The authorities also note that the industry faces serious challenges brought on by its rapid growth. These challenges include limited resources and insufficient handling capacity.

(Xinhua News Agency November 16, 2005)