Airlines

Unearthing the History of China Flight Inspection: From the 1950s to the Present





The history of China Flight Inspection (CFI) dates back to the 1950s when the Chinese government recognized the need for a reliable, safe, and efficient aerial surveying and inspection service for its civil aviation industry. The airline was officially founded in 1954 and has since become a major part of the national air transport system.

The first aircraft used by CFI was a Soviet-made Yak-12, which was used for various surveying and inspection flights. The fleet was soon expanded to include several other aircraft such as the Cessna 185, the Yak-18, and the Yak-40. Over the years, the fleet has grown to include modern jet aircraft such as the Y-12, Y-7, and the MA-60. The MA-60 is the most commonly used aircraft in the fleet and is used for most of the airline's regular flights.

One of the most important milestones in the history of CFI was its involvement in the development of the Beijing Capital International Airport in the late 1980s. CFI provided vital aerial surveying services during the construction of the airport. This was an important development for the airline as it allowed the airline to reach new heights in terms of operational capabilities and customer service.

Another milestone in the history of CFI was the introduction of the airline's first international flights in the 1990s. The airline began operating regular flights to Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan. This expansion allowed the airline to become a major player in the region's aviation market.





Over the years, CFI has also been involved in several incidents, such as the crash of a MA-60 in 2003, which killed all 43 passengers and crew on board. This prompted a federal investigation into the airline's safety practices, which ultimately concluded that the airline had taken all necessary precautions to ensure safety.

Despite these incidents, CFI has continued to innovate and expand its operations. The airline now operates a fleet of over 100 aircraft and serves over 200 destinations across China and internationally. The airline has also introduced several new services such as cargo transportation, charter flights, and VIP services.

CFI has become an integral part of China's aviation industry and has made a major contribution to the country's economic development. As the airline continues to grow and expand, it is sure to remain a major force in the international aviation world for years to come.