China announces measures to give aviation industry fillip

China has rolled out a raft of measures – from financial support to infrastructure investments – for the country’s aviation industry, which has been hit by the coronavirus outbreak. In total, the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) announced 16 measures, all of which are aimed at “promoting the stable development” of the sector. It did not disclose how much these measures, taken together, are expected to cost. In terms of financial support, the CAAC will provide subsidies to Chinese carriers, and provide additional funding support for international services. During this period, the CAAC is also waiving the civil aviation development funds that airlines have to pay. The CAAC will also reduce the airport parking and air control fees for all carriers. For Class 1 and 2 airports, take-off and landing charges will be cut by 10%, with parking fees waived. The fee reductions have already been put in place since 23 January, the CAAC notes, and will remain in force until further notice.<br/>