China's biggest helicopter show opens in Tianjin

Visitors look at the performance of aerobatic flight at the Second China Helicopter Exposition in Tianjin, north China, Sept. 5, 2013. The exposition was opened on Thursday. (Xinhua/Liu Haifeng)

China's biggest helicopter expo opened on Thursday in the northern port city of Tianjin. More than 200 domestic and overseas manufacturers and suppliers are taking part in the four-day show, which includes aerobatic displays.

It's a major international event for the helicopter industry. Fabulous aerobatics, cutting-edge technology and a wide range of equipment, all competing for a slice of China's fast growing helicopter market.

China's aviation market has been growing rapidly. Especially since 2011, when China began to open low-altitude airspace, helicopters have taken a growing place in China's aviation market.

"The market here in China is phenomenal," said Sikorsky Aircraft China's General Manager Ryan C. McFeaters.

As the market here expands, the competition is heating up. It's not just overseas manufacturers - domestic players are also fighting for a piece of the action.

The China Aviation Industry Hafei Group is China's top manufacturer. This is the result of a joint project with Eurocopter.

"This helicopter behind us was coproduced by Hafei and Eurocopter. We built the body, rotor system and the operation system. By working with them, we can reduce risks and have pooled our strengths," said Yang Guangzhao from Hafei Group.

Civil companies are also seeking commercial expansion. "We plan to build or reconstruct a hundred heliports in China in the next decade. Many local governments and corporations have expressed a desire to work with us. Now we have two heliports running, and one under construction," said Yin Xiaolin, VP of Fujian Zenisun Heliport Development Co., Ltd.

Major contracts will be signed during this expo. The potential for growth is big, and new services can be expected both in the government and civil sectors.