China to make building large aircraft a priority
(Reuters)
Updated: 2006-01-06 15:32

China intends to make the manufacturing of large commercial airplanes a top priority from 2010, the nation's defense industry has announced.

The Commission of Science, Technology and Industry for Defense (COSTIND), which is responsible China's defense technology, said the aerospace industry will focus on the issue during the five-year period beginning 2010.

"The priority for the airline industry (during the period) will be on trunk liners, with research and production to begin at the appropriate time," a press release on the COSTIND website said after its chiefs met this week.

COSTIND also has a strong influence over civilian industries that contribute to the nation's defense.

No other details were provided on the type of airliner being considered or specific timing.

China has long considered building a large 150-200 seat commercial aircraft, rather than continuing to rely on Boeing of the United States and Europe's Airbus.