China led Asia Pacific to outstrips world as largest air market

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(Free-Press-Release.com) February 2, 2010 -- Beijing, China, February 2, 2010 ___ China led the Asia Pacific to outpace North America to become the world's largest aviation market last year, according to an industry report recently issued.

Air passenger traffic within Asia Pacific reached 647 million last year, outstripping North America's 638 million passengers, the International Air Transport Association stated. An additional 217 million travelers are expected to take to the skies within Asia Pacific by 2013.The global aviation industry is expected to reduce losses from US$11 billion in 2009 to US$5.6 billion in 2010. The loss reduction is being led by Asia-Pacific's carriers who are expected to see their losses shrink from US$3.4 billion in 2009 to US$700 million in 2010, said the report.

Lehman, Lee & Xu, one of the largest commercial law firms in China, has represented a number of foreign and Chinese airlines over the years, as well as service providers to the airline industry.

Edward Lehman, Managing Director of Lehman, Lee & Xu commented that “we have been very fortunate in being at the very center of the aviation industry in China for quite some time. We have represented numerous foreign and Chinese airlines, from matters ranging from reviewing labor & employment contracts, reviewing terminal leases, litigation for defective jet engines, assisting with foreign corrupt practices act issues, to resolving disputes with lost luggage. One of the most interesting recent developments in aviation is the government’s policy of now encouraging private aviation, private airlines, and private charter companies. We are now working with several foreign-owned, private aviation companies to establish their business operations in China and to navigate the maze of laws and regulations that regulate this sector. Aviation is certainly one of the most interesting and dynamic sectors in China.”

For more information about Lehman, Lee & Xu, please visit the firm's website at www.lehmanlaw.com