China rising in the ranks of helicopter fleet operators worldwide
The civilian helicopter industry in greater China grew by 20 percent in 2013 alone. (Photo: Barry Ambrose)
The civilian helicopter industry in greater China grew by 20 percent in 2013 alone. (Photo: Barry Ambrose)

Call it the decade of “skies opening” in greater China, or, if you are a helicopter OEM call it the decade of sales opportunities. If you are involved with helicopters in greater China today the excitement and growth is palpable. Last year the entire fleet (465 helicopters, 424 based in mainland China) grew by 20 percent, according to the Asian Sky Group Greater China Civil Helicopter Fleet Report, released during Heli-Expo 2014. The Group’s projection for 2014 growth is 20 percent again, based on actual orders placed for helicopters in the region, bringing the total number of civil helicopters to more than 550 by the end of the year.