The year 2005 marked an important start of China's nongovernmental airline companies, which became a breakthrough in Airbus' strategy of attracting more Chinese customers.

According to the latest statistics from Airbus China Company, the newly-established Dong Xing airline company just ordered 20 Airbus A320 aircrafts. So far, among four Chinese nongovernmental airline companies, three chose the popular Airbus A320.

Experts said Airbus' new order was due to the economical, spacious cabin design and compatibility of the model.

In 2005 alone, Shenzhen Airlines, Hainan Airlines, Spring Airlines, Eagle Airlines became Airbus customers, bringing the total number of customers to thirteen.

Presently, Airbus occupies 29 percent of the market shares in the Chinese mainland, said industry insiders.

About 78 Airbus aircrafts are expected to be delivered to China next year, an increase 20 percent.

Airbus' goal is to take up half of the market share in China, which may require another seven to eight years, said Laurence Barron, president of Airbus China company.

(Xinhua News Agency December 5, 2005)