China’s aviation regulator steps up safety communication with foreign carriers

China's Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) has been intensifying its safety-focused dialogue with foreign carriers from Southeast Asia in recent months to bolster cooperation and oversight. According to an aviation analyst, this shift in communication stems from evolving operational practices and a commitment to maintaining the safety of air travel within the country.

In a recent meeting with AirAsia Group in late July, the CAAC's southwest regional office emphasized the continuous strengthening of safety operations and the primary responsibility of foreign airlines.

AirAsia's senior management, including the group chief safety officer, the CEO of AirAsia X, and the China regional manager, participated in the meeting. AirAsia briefed CAAC officials on their China operations and compliance plans, which were met with full affirmation from the CAAC officials. In March, the CAAC office for southwestern China summoned representatives from Malaysia-based cargo carrier Raya Airlines following incidents such as two instances of cabin depressurisation requiring emergency descent while in Chinese airspace.

The company's directors overseeing operations, safety, and maintenance were informed of CAAC specialists' requirements and safety recommendations, followed by discussions on rectification measures.

These meetings serve as a routine means of maintaining communication and conveying safety reminders, according to aviation analyst Jason Zheng Lin. Zheng stated that CAAC, which has one of the most stringent safety supervision regimens globally, holds these meetings to routinely remind operators of risks and areas for improvement.

Such meetings are open to all airlines, regardless of nationality. In 2025, CAAC conducted a comprehensive operations audit of Hainan Airlines, one of China's largest carriers, resulting in amendments to operational practices and aviation safety. While these events led to some adjustments in operational practices, they did not result in serious incidents.

CAAC's efforts extend beyond these meetings, with increased inspections and checks on airlines' work to address any aircraft with potential risks. The analyst noted that CAAC invites Chinese airlines to share best practices and experiences with foreign firms, particularly smaller ones that have recently launched operations in China.

For example, safety experts from SF Airlines visited Raya Airlines in March, while a special meeting on foreign carrier safety operations was held in October to discuss safety occurrences and prevention strategies involving Batik Air Malaysia, Myanmar National Airlines, and others. These measures aim to ensure full understanding and compliance with China's unique safety supervision culture and policies.

Overall, CAAC's intensified communication and cooperation with foreign carriers are expected to further enhance the safety of air travel in China, maintaining the country's excellent civil aviation record and providing peace of mind for passengers.