Hawker Beechcraft Deal Latest Example of Chinese Push into Aviation Industry

WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — This week's announcement that Hawker Beechcraft has a deal with a Chinese firm for the sale of its civilian operations exemplifies emerging realities in one of the few remaining strongholds of American manufacturing. Wichita plane makers build more than half of all general aviation aircraft delivered globally each year. But the global economic recession was hard on the industry, and Chinese firms are showing an interest in some beleaguered companies. Cessna Aircraft Company has said it foresees China becoming one of the top 10 countries for business jet ownership by 2025. Cessna in March signed a deal with a Chinese manufacturer for the final assembly, sales and customer support for the Cessna Caravan in China for the Chinese market. A Chinese firm also bought Cirrus Aircraft last year.