Airlines see soaring growth prospects

With international trade and tourism booming in China, aviation companies are accelerating efforts to open new air routes, especially to emerging markets, according to industry insiders.

"Demand is strongest for destinations in Africa and Australia," said Qiu Jiachen, chairman of Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport. "We plan to open 30 new international routes in the next three years."

He made the remarks on Sunday at the opening ceremony of the 24th World Routes, an international exhibition of airlines and airports. About 3,500 delegates from 115 countries have gathered in Guangzhou, Guangdong province, for the three-day event.