China's ambitious plan to create a general aviation infrastructure includes promises to build a network of 2,000 small airports throughout the country by 2030.

As with any international destination, getting the most out of a trip into Chinese airspace—and not winding up sideways with the aviation authorities—demands thorough advance planning.

One of the more challenging enterprises in aviation is preparing for and undergoing a knowledge validation for upgrade to commercial operator, either under FAR Part 135 or Part 121.