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China Airborne

288 pages, 2012

economics & politics

economics & politics

987 books
business & management

business & management

1082 books
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Description

Two-thirds of the new airports under construction today are being built in China, with China's airlines expecting to triple their fleet size over the next decade and becoming the fastest-growing market for Boeing and Airbus. 

But the Chinese are determined to be more than customers—in 2011, China announced its Twelfth Five-Year Plan, which included a commitment to spend a quarter trillion dollars to jump-start its aerospace industry. Toward that end, it acquired Cirrus Aviation, maker of the world's most popular small propeller plane, and Teledyne Continental, which produces the engines for Cirrus and other small aircraft. 

James Fallows documents the extraordinary scale of this project and explains why it is a crucial test case for China's hopes for modernization and innovation in other industries in his book China Airborne.

China's Rapid Modernization

In 'China Airborne', James Fallows explores the rapid modernization of China's aviation industry. He shows how the country is investing heavily in airports and airplanes, aiming to become a global aviation powerhouse. This is a clear sign of China's ambition to be a world leader in technology and infrastructure.

Challenges in China's Aviation Industry

Fallows also digs into the challenges that China's aviation industry faces. Despite the rapid growth, there are issues with safety, corruption, and a lack of skilled pilots and air traffic controllers. These problems could potentially slow down the industry's progress.

Insight into Chinese Society

The book isn't just about planes. It also offers a fascinating look into Chinese society and politics. Fallows uses the aviation industry as a lens to examine China's approach to innovation, regulation, and its relationship with the rest of the world.

China's Global Ambitions

Fallows makes it clear that China's aviation boom is part of a larger plan. The country is not just looking to compete with other nations, but to surpass them. This ambition is seen in many other sectors as well, from technology to finance.

The Future of Aviation

Finally, 'China Airborne' gives us a glimpse into the future of aviation. With China's massive population and growing middle class, the demand for air travel is expected to skyrocket. This could reshape the global aviation industry and have major implications for the environment, economy, and geopolitics.

Quotes 5

James Fallows' 'China Airborne' is a fascinating book that explores China's recent rise and its ambitious plans for its aerospace industry.

Bill GatesBill Gates - Microsoft Co-Founder

'China Airborne' is a masterful depiction of China's state-driven efforts to develop its aviation industry and the challenges it faces.

Fareed ZakariaFareed Zakaria - Journalist, Author

Fallows' 'China Airborne' is a compelling exploration of China's aerospace ambitions and the implications for the world.

Evan OsnosEvan Osnos - Pulitzer Winner

'China Airborne' is a must-read for anyone interested in the future of China and its impact on the global economy.

Thomas L. FriedmanThomas L. Friedman - Columnist, Author

Fallows' 'China Airborne' is a brilliant analysis of China's aerospace industry and its potential to reshape the world.

Robert D. KaplanRobert D. Kaplan - Foreign Correspondent
Bill GatesFareed ZakariaEvan OsnosThomas L. FriedmanRobert D. Kaplan

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Patrick Collison

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