KunPeng Airlines Unaffected by Chinese Policy

KunPeng Airlines may be one of the last start-ups in China for some time, according to the Mesa Airlines which partnered with Shenzhen Airlines to create the new carriers, set to launch in a few weeks. China imposed a moratorium on new airlines through 2010 citing pilot shortages and infrastructure constraints as well as a desire to boost the prospects for domestic carriers. The earliest a proposed carrier can even apply is 2010. The government, however, imposed five exceptions including using AVIC 1’s AIR 21 jet. Other exceptions include airlines who will use foreign pilots, such as Mesa’s plan. Cargo operations will also be allowed along with airlines focuses on the less developed western and northwestern China. If an airline will fly only at night after peak travel times, it will also be allowed to launch. For a complete report see this week's issue of Regional Aviation News.