China Enhances Aviation Safety Measures Following Recent Plane Crashes

Following the tragic incidents of plane crashes involving Azerbaijan Airlines and Jeju Air, the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) has announced a series of enhanced safety measures aimed at bolstering the safety of the country's aviation sector. Chief Safety Officer Shu Mingjiang highlighted the importance of learning from these fatal accidents during a news conference in Beijing, noting that the recent events have sparked widespread concerns about aviation safety.

The CAAC's response comes as the international aviation community reevaluates its safety protocols. One of the recent crashes took place on December 25 when a passenger aircraft traveling from Baku, Azerbaijan, to Grozny, Russia, crashed near Aktau International Airport, resulting in 38 fatalities attributed primarily to a bird strike. Shortly after, on December 29, a Jeju Air plane encountered a landing gear failure while attempting to land at Muan International Airport, leading to the deaths of 179 passengers as the aircraft skidded off the runway.

In light of these incidents, the CAAC has set forth several strategies to mitigate risks in the aviation sector. A significant commitment is made toward improving measures against bird strikes, which pose a critical hazard for flights. Shu indicated that airports would enhance their focus on the understanding of seasonal bird migration, particularly in winter, which would aid in enforcing more effective bird control practices.

Furthermore, the CAAC is encouraging airports to incorporate advanced technology for detecting potential bird strikes around airport premises. The authority has also mandated a comprehensive inspection regime for runway safety, ensuring that runways are free of irregularities and comply with the highest safety standards.

In addition, to bolster emergency preparedness, the CAAC has ramped up training programs and intensified emergency drills to reduce potential risks. With the Spring Festival travel rush approaching, expected to witness over 90 million air passenger trips, the CAAC is executing a special safety inspection campaign, advocating for airlines to perform thorough checks of their fleets and operations.

Xu Qing, the CAAC's transport department director, reiterated the organization's dedication to maintaining safety standards throughout the travel rush as China's aviation industry continues to expand. The CAAC has implemented detailed safety protocols aimed at ensuring safe and efficient operations during what is anticipated to be a record travel period.