We don't have to fly planes twice anymore

I've been blessed with a wealth of exhilarating experiences over the years while covering science and defense, two of China's fastest developing sectors.

Now I'm proud to add one more to the list: flying over Beijing in one of the People's Liberation Army's most advanced surveillance and anti-submarine aircraft.

Late last month, the PLA Navy invited me to board a Y-8 maritime patrol plane and fly in formation toward Tian'anmen Square in a rehearsal for the military parade on Oct 1 celebrating the People's Republic of China's 70th birthday.