Aviation experts meet in Beijing as sector targets innovation, growth

China's civil aviation industry is focusing on safety, innovation and sustainable growth at the third CATA Aviation Conference, which has brought together more than 200 enterprises and institutions to chart the future of air transport.

The conference opened in Beijing on Friday under the theme "Safe, Smart, Sustainable: The Next Era of Air Transport & General Aviation." Industry leaders, government officials and global partners are attending the event, which has become one of China's most influential platforms for dialogue and cooperation in the aviation sector.

Leaders, experts and representatives from across the aviation industry attend the opening ceremony of the third CATA Aviation Conference in Beijing, Oct. 24, 2025. [Photo provided to China.org.cn by the China Air Transport Association]

Han Jun, deputy administrator of the Civil Aviation Administration of China, said the civil aviation sector is shifting from expansion to efficiency as the country prepares for its 15th Five-Year Plan period (2026-2030). He called for deeper reforms, smarter resource allocation and stronger innovation to drive progress while keeping safety the top priority.

Wang Changshun, chairman of the China Air Transport Association (CATA), highlighted the challenges and opportunities facing the industry amid global supply chain restructuring and intensified competition from high-speed rail. He urged airlines to move from price competition to value-based development, accelerate green and digital transformation, and strengthen integration across the civil aviation ecosystem.

At the opening ceremony, CATA released the Air Cargo Self-Discipline Convention and announced the winners of the 2024 Civil Aviation Science and Technology Awards, recognizing technological advances and best practices in safety management.

The three-day conference, which runs through Sunday, includes industry forums and a professional exhibition covering key themes such as green aviation, digital transformation, financial resilience and low-altitude economy. The exhibition showcases new technologies, products and services that represent the future of air transport innovation.

Industry players are showcasing technologies merging artificial intelligence with aviation operations. Loong Air has drawn attention with its "8+1+N" Framework, which uses AI to improve flight safety, operational efficiency and passenger experience.

China Southern Airlines Technology, a subsidiary specializing in flight safety and training equipment, unveiled its independently developed A320 Flight and Navigation Procedures Trainer, a domestically produced, high-fidelity simulator that advances localized pilot training in China.

The conference's focus on safety and innovation reflects China's push for high-quality civil aviation development and its growing role in shaping global standards for smarter, greener and more resilient air transport.