Civil aviation sector sees boom in summer months

China's civil aviation industry has experienced notable growth this summer, with operations remaining smooth and secure, according to the Civil Aviation Administration of China on Friday.

From July 1 through Aug 20, the sector handled 117 million passenger trips, averaging 2.29 million per day, marking an 11 percent increase compared to last year, according to Zhang Qing, director of the CAAC's Development Planning Department.

The upward trend in passenger numbers has continued into August, with daily volumes surpassing 2.3 million. On August 10, a record 2.45 million passenger trips were recorded.

The summer travel season, which began on July 1 and runs through August 31, has also been marked by a surge in international travel and study abroad demands. This has driven a continued increase in the global air passenger market, with international flights now exceeding 6,300 per week — an almost 10 percent rise since late June.

Popular destinations include Japan, South Korea, and Southeast Asia, while the Paris Olympics has notably enhanced air travel between China and France, she said.

In response to growing international travel, 42 major airports, 41 airlines, and 12 ticket sales platforms have improved payment options for foreign travelers. These enhancements include the acceptance of both domestic and international bank cards and facilities for currency exchange.