Considering the use of a private jet for business purposes? Already in the business aviation industry? You’ll want to attend this year’s Asian Business Aviation Conference & Exhibition (ABACE 2018) in Shanghai, China this April 17 – 19. It is the singular event for top aviation business leaders, entrepreneurs, and anyone interested in business aviation. Why?

New aircraft make debut appearances at this exhibit so you’ll get to see the most current, state-of-the-art jets first. And, not just the aircraft, the very latest in aviation equipment and technology are unveiled at the venue, the Shanghai Hawker Pacific Business Aviation Service Centre.

Second, some of the most pressing issues in business aviation will be discussed in sessions over the three-day event. From the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme (CORSIA) which goes into effect in 2020, to Cyber Security and Connected Aircraft, to infrastructure investment opportunities, the program is packed with strategies you’ll need in the coming years. At ABACE, you’ll basically get a mini-degree in business aviation in the span of a weekend.

Will Jetex Be At ABACE?

Third, but for us it’s actually first, Jetex is a regular exhibitor at this event. Clients and prospective clients—anyone with a passion for executive jet aviation—often stop and chat with us to find out about new services. From trip support and fuel, to catering, to FBO terminals, our global network provides everything executive jet aviation requires anywhere in the world. Just this year we’ve launched a new division, X by Jetex. The Xperience team not only charters jets, villas, and yachts, but designs the whole adventure for our clients. Stop by the Jetex booth to find out more.

Flying to Shanghai?

There are two main options for General Aviation (GA) flights traveling to Shanghai: the Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (IATA: SHA, ICAO: ZSSS) and Shanghai Pudong International Airport (IATA: PVG, ICAO: ZSPD). Both are 24-hour Airports of Entry (AoE), with customs and immigration available on-site. You’ll find a full range of ground handling and fueling services at both locations.

The venue for ABACE is the Hawker Pacific Business Aviation Service Centre, which is located at Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport. This makes ZSSS the first choice for those attending the event. Shanghai Pudong International Airport is located about 54km from the venue. Landing permits and slots should be obtained well in advance of this popular event.

What About Landing Permits?

The official lead time to get a landing permit, which is required for any travel to China, is three working days. This gives the Civil Aviation Authority of China (CAAC) time to review all information and coordinate with the local sponsor. Once approved, permits are only valid for the times stated on the flight schedule. Any changes to arrival/departure times, passengers, crew, or aircraft tail numbers are considered revisions and too many revisions may require a fresh permit request.

Request Airport Slots Early

Slots are required at both Hongqiao (ZSSS) and Pudong (ZSPD) airports. These will be issued by the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) once landing permits have been confirmed. Due to high scheduled commercial activity, slots are not processed and confirmed until approximately 48 hours prior to the estimated time of arrival. Please note that the slot time confirmed may differ from what was originally requested, which can result in revisions to the scheduled arrival/departure time. Peak operating hours at ZSSS and ZSPD are from 08:00 – 22:00 local time. During this period, only one slot is allocated for each GA operator. This means arrival and departure slots cannot be obtained on the same day during peak hours.

Getting Your Chinese Visa

All passengers and crew traveling to China must arrange appropriate visas prior to arrival. Visa regulations are strictly enforced by the Chinese authorities. Arriving in the country without the correct documents may result in fines and/or deportation. Note that all passports must be valid for the full duration of the stay.

Arrange Your Next Trip with Jetex

Planning a trip to Shanghai? Arrive in style with Jetex! We can provide a complete range of trip support services from our state-of-the-art operations center in Beijing. Our multilingual team is on standby 24/7 to assist with all aspects of your journey, including international trip planning, ground handling, worldwide fuel uplifts and bespoke concierge services. Contact us at china@jetex.com to find out more.