MAR/APR2019 SKY TIMES 016

The Flavor in the Air Successful First Test Flight at Age-Defying Beijing Daxing Cai Guoqing International Airport Editor’s Letter s a world-renowned project, Beijing Daxing International Airport is set to open this fall. At the beginning of 2019, it embraced its first test flight, with an inspection plane Alanding smoothly on the West One Runway at 10:10 a.m. on January 22nd. This means the construction of Daxing Airport will now enter the acceptance and handover stage. Some 34 days later, Beijing Daxing International Airport completed flight checks when a plane landed safely at 10:20 a.m. on February 24th, 19 days ahead of schedule. Four runways, seven instrument landing systems, seven lighting systems, one navigation system and a flight range finder, as well as a set of flight procedures, went through thorough checks. The completion of the tests means the airport is ready for operation. The new airport is expected to handle 45 million passengers annually by 2021 and 72 million by 2025. In this March & April issue of Sky Times, we bring you to Beijing Daxing International Airport to witness the grand process of flight checks. (page 48) Photo by Air France In our minds, we always have an ambivalent attitude towards in- flight catering. Almost everyone who has traveled by plane has had to make the same difficult choice: “Beef Noodles or Chicken Rice?” After having had to select one of these two equally unpalatable options, it might be hard to muster the courage to call yourself a foodie ever again. However, what is even more surprising is that passengers could also enjoy fancy meals cooked by chefs directly on the plane. Could it be true? In fact, this used to happen over 80 years ago. Nowadays, when you choose to take international flights to travel around the world, you can enjoy the local food even before you land. Traditional cuisines and international flavors can both be served on board. Do you want to know how flight meals are made? What is the history behind in-flight catering? What features and flavors do different airlines offer? Let’s begin with an appetizer and indulge in the in-flight cuisine of airlines from all around the world. (page 14) Sit back, relax and enjoy your springtime with Sky Times. As CAAC Inflight Magazine CAO SHENSHEN EXECUTIVE EDITOR always, we wish you a pleasant journey. with the largest circulation of all inflight publications. 01 SKY TIMES 016 MAR/APR 2019

Responsible Institution: Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) Now Sponsor: 04 China Civil Aviation Publishing House

President: Ma Songwei Floating Parade at The Carnival of Venice Fabulous Hot Air Balloon Festival in Swiss Alps People Publication: 55 China Civil Aviation Publishing House Panda Enjoys Bubble Bath ’ Editor-in-Chief: Li Yong Lucky Running on St. Patrick’s Day What Makes Emirates In-flight Entertainment

Executive Editor: Cao Shenshen Van Gogh Goes Immersive in Paris Exhibition System the Best in the World? / 56

Editors: Feng Shuangqing, Wang Ruosi Age-Defying Cai Guoqing / 62

Editorial Consultant: Paul Treidum

Editor-Visuals & Photographs: Lu Ning Talk Items Data 12 Advertising Director: Grace Dai 09 10

Designed By: Alinea Productions Advertising: Lifestyle 67 CAAC Magazine Corporation

Address: CAAC Journal, Civil Aviation Building A, Shilihe, Chaoyang District, Idyllic Land for Urban Escape / 68 Beijing, 100122 Taste Is All That Matters / 74 Printing: 13 Focus Chic / 80 Jing Ping Cheng Qian Printing Co., LTD Books & Films / 82 The Flavor in the Air An Interior Designer’s Cozy Cottage / 84

Advertise in Sky Times Start Your Positive Journey at Canopy by Email: [email protected] Hilton Chengdu City Centre / 87 Tel: (86-10) 87387199 Catching a Plane in a Relaxing and Pleasant Way / 88

: 主管 中国民用航空局 : 主办 中国民航出版社 : Travel 社长 马松伟 31 : 出版 中国民航出版社 : China’s Secret: Enter Hainan’s Green 主编 李永 : Paradise / 32 执行主编 曹慎慎 : 编辑 冯霜晴、王若思 Living Like a Local in Shenzhen / 36 : · 语言顾问 保罗 特达姆 WOW Shenzhen / 39 : 视觉编辑 路泞 An Eye- and Soul-Opening Journey in : 广告总监 戴晋京 Nepal / 40 : 设计 利雅法盛 Flying 89 : 广告独家代理 中国民航杂志社 : A 地址 北京市朝阳区十里河民航空管楼 座 Feast on a Plane / 90

中国民航报社 Culture Frictionless Parking Payment, : 43 印刷 京平诚乾印刷有限公司 Smarter Services / 92 ISSUE 16 Wuzhen, Between History and Ask the Captain / 94 MAR/APR 2019 Modernity / 44 News / 96 : ISSN2096-1375 国际标准刊号 Successful First Test Flight at Beijing : CN10-1381/G1 Daxing International Airport / 48 国内统一刊号 Cover: Kyler Boone Backcover: Chen Xiao 03 SKY TIMES | Now

Floating Parade at The Fabulous Carnival of Venice Hot Air The Carnival of Venice, which runs from Feb. 16 to March 5, has attracted thousands of visitors this year. Venice launched its annual carnival festivities Balloon with a floating night-time parade, starting more than two weeks of celebrations to mark the 50th anniversary of the first humans landing on the moon, with artists performing down the Rio di Cannaregio, one of Venice’s Festival in famed canals. This ancient festival is world-famous for its elaborate masks, which lend a charming and mysterious air to the event. They can be seen everywhere in the lagoon-festooned city. Swiss Alps Participants fly their hot air balloons during the 22nd Stuckli Balloon fiesta in Sattel-Hochstuckli, Switzerland, on Feb. 17. The festival attracted many hot air balloon lovers and visitors to Sattel- Hochstuckli, a famous tourist destination. With hundreds of hot air balloons filling up the clear skies, balloonists brought the joy of ballooning to the Swiss Alps.

04 05 SKY TIMES | Now

Lucky Running on St. Patrick’s Day St. Patrick’s Day is observed on March 17 to remember one of Ireland’s patron saints, St. Patrick, and as a day of recognition of Irish and Irish American culture. The tradition features celebrations centered around Irish-themed parties, drinks, and food. Many people dress in green and eat green-colored food. Inspired by symbols of good luck, the spirit of the holiday and the runners who celebrate it, Brooks Running Company debuts this year’s St. Patrick’s Day themed shoe, featuring four- leaf clovers and eye-catching uses of green and gold to deliver an energized, Run Happy experience this holiday and beyond.

Panda Enjoys Bubble Bath Giant panda Wang Wang plays with water at the Adelaide Zoo, Australia. Adelaide Zoo has called for its two giant pandas, on loan from China, to stay longer. The 10-year agreement that brought Wang Wang and Fu Ni to Australia expires in November but Zoos SA chief executive Elaine Bensted says an extension would be welcome. “We’d be thrilled to see Australia’s involvement in giant panda conservation extended and for Adelaide Zoo to continue to be home to the Australasia’s only Giant Pandas,” Ms. Bensted said.

06 07 SKY TIMES | Now SKY TIMES | Talk

Van Gogh Goes What is a unique job Immersive in Paris Exhibition that you've only seen A Paris gallery is offering visitors the chance to immerse themselves in your country? in the colourscapes of Vincent Van Gogh like never before. L’Atelier des Lumières is projecting digitized, multilayered versions of some of the artist’s most famous works, including Starry Night Over the Rhone and Churchyard in the Rain, onto its floor and walls. Conveying at different stages the illusion of water rippling in the Netherlands Japan Korea light and raindrops falling, the show is accompanied by a rich With so many bicycles, so many For as little as 6,000 Yen Ever heard of “muk-bang”, soundtrack. Van Gogh, La Nuit Etoilée, which opens on Feb. 22 1canals, and a lot of (drunk) 2 p/hr ($60 USD), you can 3the eating broadcasts in ’ youngsters that see the fun in combin- go to one of a number of cute, South Korea where people stream and runs until Dec 31, is the gallery s second immersive art project, ing the two, there’s a problem in the cozy cafés in Japan & cuddle with themselves eating? Park Seo-Yeon following a Gustav Klimt show in 2018. Netherlands. The canals are full of rusty and sleep next to a woman (usual- says she makes up to ₩10 million bikes, which poses a risk for the tourist ly aged 18-30). Yup, just sleeping ($9,300) a month from her broad- boats. Every few months, these guys dig NEXT to someone, with perhaps casts alone. Although incomes are all of them up and clean the canals. You the occasional cuddle and head not regular, they average around may call them “bikediggers”. rub. This niche enterprise came $4,000 monthly for non-promi- about in response to the crippling nent broadcasters. @ Cyril Snijders loneliness that dominates Japan’s modern day society, as young @ Kilanko Paul people refrain from getting into relationships due to strict socie- India tal conventions that are imposed 4 Jobs to prepare two hundred upon them once they marry. Iran thousand rotis (Indian flat- Professional car plate bread), 1.5 tonnes of dal (lentil soup) @ Susie Johnson 5 number blockers! I think and free food served to 100,000 people this happens only in Tehran. Some everyday are what makes the free kitchen people get paid to walk behind run at the Golden Temple in the western Indian city of Amritsar stand apart. your car, so the traffic cameras Approximately 90% of the staff are volunteers, each of which can help can’t capture your plate number as much as they are willing to. Volunteers can help with preparing food or when you enter the restricted traf- cleaning, as well as other necessary tasks. fic areas! At the end of the meal, another group of volunteers starts working. Each dish is carefully washed and made ready for the next group of visitors. @ Alireza Behrooz

@ Baljinder Singh

From Quora 08 09 SKY TIMES | Items

Hydro Flask Cooler Cup Container for Beer, Bottles, Mito largo and liquids Designed for Arc luminaire Hydro Flask, U.S.A Occhio Gmbb, Germany This new Hydro Flask Cooler Cup iF DESIGN AWARD 2019 Gold Winners is two great things in one. It’s a Change Mito largo combines can or bottle cooler, and with one From January 22 to 24, 67 design experts from all over the world selected the best achievements in design innovative lighting options quick switch, it becomes a 12-ounce from more than 50 countries for the iF DESIGN AWARD 2019. Founded in 1953, iF DESIGN AWARD has a with an individual design beverage cup. As a cooler cup, it’s brilliantly versatile with a silicone 66-year glorious history in the design field. Let’s discover the new award-winning designs that will change our language in a unique symbi- osis. Almost weightless, the Mito sleeve that lets you slide in a narrow lives this year! ring floats with its characteristic cut above the bottle or thicker can—all with the furniture. Thanks to innovative sensor technol- same snug fit. Pop off the sleeve and ogy, the light is switched by touch, dimmed you have a 12-ounce cup made to or smoothly height-adjusted. In addition to keep cold drinks cold and hot drinks gesture control, Occhio Air is also integrated hot. The product is one that never as standard, allowing convenient control via leaves your camping kit. smart phones or tablets. IONITY Electric charger IONITY GmbH, Germany

IONITY has tasked Design works Leg&Go with designing the charging station Transformable Balance bike 8in1 architecture, the charger pylons, and Shaman Inventions, Ltd. Latvia the digital interaction concept for this first European fast-charging network Leg&go 8in1 Balance Bike is a transform- Aibo (ERS1000) for long-distance travel. The task was able wooden bike that grows with a child Entertainment Robot to furnish IONITY with a recognizable, aged 6 months to 6 years. Its unique frame Sony Corporation, Japan welcoming and leading-edge visual accommodates 8 modifications to easily identity in Europe, whilst significantly change it into a Rocking Elephant, Tricycle, The aibo entertainment robot gives users a improving the electric charging expe- Pedal Bike, Downhill Bike or even a Polar companion to connect with, raise, and love. rience. The overall goal is to dispel Bike. Due to its customizability and adjust- Using Sony’s AI technologies for linking with concerns about range and make ability in size, it not only saves the parents the cloud, aibo keeps growing into a distinct electromobility more attractive for from purchasing 2 to 3 different bikes, but personality by making its ownconnections long-distance travel. is also sustainable, minimizing the impact of with people. The robot includes 22 drive overconsumption. actuators that unlock realistic expressivity and enable advances in aibo’s physical capabili- ties. Embracing the concept of “vitality,” the design fuses AI and mechatronics into a new story of human-robot companionship.

Superior Stewpot Series Stewpot FOSHAN SHUNDE MIDEA ELECTRICAL, China Balanced This is a set of Chinese traditional soup stew pots designed Kitchen Knife Set for young families. It embraces cultural heritage, the shape Paul Cohen Design, of Chinese ceramic ware, and a CMF design of white with Australia solid wood.Different from dark traditional stew pots, this new Card Phone KY-01L Chinese design can better integratewith modern home spaces. The premium 3 knife set is Wireless Audio VL Series VL5, VL3 customizable to suit your person- Mobile phone al cooking and preparation style by Wireless Audio KYOCERA Corporation, Japan modifying the weight and balance of the Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Korea handle. The innovative & patented adjustable This is the world’s smallest and slimmest card-type balance weight uses a magneticconnection. The VL Audio is a wireless audio system with a modern slim form phone, with the size of a business card. High-quality Positioning the weight forward allows for firm factor design which allows for easy installation anywhere around VoLTE calls can be made with this device.The use of chopping, and moving it to the rear makes the the house, on a table or wall mounts, freeing listeners from the e-paper for the display saves power and realizes minia- knife balanced for precision cutting. The surface stereotype of conventional fixed audio systems. It also provides turization. Through the compactness, possibilities have finish is a black oxidized food grade scratch users with easy controls through a dial remote that lets them find been further expanded for early adopters and business resistant treatment, which is micro honed for tracks and carry out simple commands such as Play/Pause and users. This is an original NTT DOCOMO model that excellent non-stick qualities. volume adjustment via voice commands. brings innovation with a simple yet essential design.

10 11 SKY TIMES | Data

CHINA’S CIVIL AVIATION REACHES NEW HEIGHTS

SPRING FESTIVAL IN NUMBERS From February 4 to 10, box During this Spring Festival, 421 MILLION people chose to office revenues of Chinese travel from February 4 to 10, 0.35% higher compared with movies reached 5.8 BILLION the same period last year. Yuan, as 130 million people went to the cinema. On the first day of the Chinese lunar year, the box office 12.59 338 climbed to 1.4 BILLION Yuan, +10.6% -0.8% surpassing last year’s record of 1.27 billion Yuan.The Wandering Earth, Crazy Alien, and 60.39 10.22 Pegasus were the top +5.8% -3.2% three movies.

UNIT:MILLION

Besides family reunion, 7.22 MILLION people chose to travel abroad with A total of 225 MILLION families and friends during the 2019 passengers enjoyed higher- Spring Festival holiday, 15.92% quality airport services thanks higher year on year. Thailand, Japan, to a paperless ticketing drive in Vietnam, Singapore, Malaysia, the 2018 that helped United States, and Korea were the saveti me spent Focus top seven destinations. waiting by about 18.75 MILLION hours.

CHINA’S FLIGHTS RECORD BEST ON-TIME PERFORMANCE SINCE 2010

THE NORMAL RELEASE RATE In 2018, the on-time rate for flights operated by Chinese AT AIRPORTS airlines reached 80.13%, the highest level since 2010, according to the Civil Aviation Administration of 82.94% +6.78% China. Since the launch of a special operation aimed at improving the service quality for air passengers last year, flight management has seen significant improvement. THE ON-TIME DEPARTURE RATE 82.51% +8.89%

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The f l avo r in the air

Be it a pack of chili sauce and a piece of warm bread or a specially cooked dish or a bowl of delicious rice noodles with chicken soup, in the uncomfortably narrow seat on an airplane, when the flight attendants serve you meals of meat and vegetables, know that they are actually also serving you their sincerity, and that can only be felt by the heart.

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which celebrates the flavor of Lapsang-Souchong black tea on than 3%. In the Xiamen Air kitch- white tea and fresh pork ribs. the Amsterdam route. This mellow en, the standard is zero foreign Cooking with tea helps dilute and and fresh flavor helps provide objects in the rice. In order to dissolve the copious amounts of relief from the dry air in the cabin. ensure the fluffy texture of their Flavor all fat in this pork-laden dish. Other Tea soup can warm you up just as rice, cooks break up the rice main courses are chopped-chili sea well as a blanket. coming out of the pot (which is bass and Da-Hong-Pao tea-taste nearly 100oC) by hand. What few short ribs. The dessert is a jasmine A Story about Rice people know is that the rice served puff. With one bite of this soft on their airplanes has actually and sweet puff, you can feel the In the Xiamen Air catering been shaken up three times: once essence of jasmine explode in center, a dozen or so workers are after steaming, once more after Across your mouth. gathered around a long table, being refrigerated, and then again Tea from Fujian is well-known working with rice. They work before being packaged. Text Feng Shuangqing around the world. Xiamen Air, in pairs and sift through the rice Planes fly around the world headquartered in this prominent with care. After one finishes their frequently. But in many cases, tea province, has been serving selection, their partner goes on to meals served onboard are not China tea-taste dishes for over ten years inspect it. As you may know, if the provided by the airline’s own and has even published a book quality control of airplane food kitchen. Instead, they are made hen flying, what in upscale restaurants, the food with Da-Hong-Pao offered on appropriately entitled Cooking goes wrong, all the passengers by catering companies located in concerns a foodie in the seaport city of Xiamen the Los Angeles route, and the With Tea. This book offers reci- are put at risk, and an immediate the city the plane departs from. the most might has long made foodies drool. cooked-with-tea dishes on the pes for hundreds of dishes and emergency response may be trig- When intercontinental routes first W not be delays or If you didn’t get enough in the menu “Charm of Fuzhou (aka snacks that are made with green gered at the destination on the opened, foreign catering compa- turbulence, but the quality of city, the in-flight meals provid- the City of Banyans)” served on tea, oolong tea, red tea, black other side of the world. The conse- nies cooked Chinese food in a the in-flight meal. If you take a ed by Xiamen Air will give you the newly opened Fuzhou to Paris tea, and flavored tea. Cooking quences quickly become serious. western style, which is why we domestic flight, you may gasp with an opportunity to make up for route are memorable. Bak-kut- with tea has already become a According to national stan- might still run into “fake Chinese disappointment upon seeing a stew- lost time. Xiamen Air, based in tech, a specialty of Fuzhou, is a trademark of Xiamen Air meals. dards, the permissible percentage food” on flights heading back ardess bringing you chicken rice Xiamen, Fujian Province was pork rib dish cooked in broth, It’s even possible to taste classic of foreign objects in rice is less to China. or beef noodles. You can’t help but greatly influenced by Fujian and Rice is an indispensable part sigh: “One World, One Menu.” Taiwanese cuisine and provides of Chinese cuisine. In order to The food on most domestic unique and delicious in-flight encourage foreign catering compa- airlines is all part of one big fami- meals – such as braised fish, nies to provide rice cooked in the ly and is probably all made by the braised duck with ginger, braised Chinese way and satisfy Chinese same catering company. However, pork, and seafood and vegetable palates, the Xiamen Air Catering some airlines do provide palatable stew with satay sauce. Open your Department examined the rice of in-flight meals. The quality of disposable dinner box in economy seven different foreign catering their food is an advantage that the class and you will see traditional companies. Later, they sent rice world’s best airlines use to attract snacks like fried flour-coated samples to companies that failed customers. Some passengers chose peanut and coconut cake. Fried the test to help them get their rice an airline entirely based on the noodles and satay noodles are up to snuff. They specially sent out taste of its food. also in-flight staples. Chinese chefs to provide cooking People see food as a basic need. If you take an international guidance and “correct” improper Under the pressure of their passen- flight, or any other long-haul cooking processes and cookware. gers’ picky tastes, many domestic flight over ten hours long, the A Seattle catering company even airlines have tried their utmost to prospect of having a tasty (or bought seven rice cookers to cook improve the palatability of their at least palatable) in-flight meal rice for Xiamen Air flights. in-flight meals and have spent large may help make up for some of sums of money hiring famous chefs your back pain. Delicious food Hot Pot in the Sky from upscale restaurants as advi- is always available on Xiamen sors. This has become a subtle trend Air intercontinental flights. Just When it comes to Sichuan in the airline catering industry. wait for the meal delivery service Airlines, in-flight food becomes announcement. an unavoidable topic. In 2017, Minnan Flavor and Tea Among Xiamen Air’s refresh- the terms “Do not Fly Sichuan ing menu, the chicken soup Airlines” were a top search on From street snacks and food with Tieguanyin served on the Weibo (a Chinese version of stalls to lavish seafood feasts Seattle route, the cooked rice Twitter). Since then, a rumor has

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thought a flying Sichuan into restaurant, every their Sichuan Airlines food, from menu airplane provides a categories to flight of delicacies with frequent updates. spicy and refreshing tastes. Serving both local specialties and international dishes, Sichuan Delicious and Healthy Airlines thoroughly deserves the nickname “Hot Pot in the Sky.” To prepare an in-flight meal, Generally speaking, the menu is the procedures are far more updated monthly, continuously complex than ina typical restau- promoting Sichuan flavors to rant kitchen. Cooking airplane passengers with both new and food involves not only the design classic dishes. of the menu, but also the selection In recent years, firewood of ingredients, main courses, side chicken has become popular in dishes, and condiments. What’s Sichuan and Chongqing. Cooked more, the color combinations, in a simple pot using burning flavor pairings, and presentation firewood, the chicken obtains a of the meal must also be taken rich and delicious flavor thanks into consideration. to a careful control overthe Sichuan Airlines develops its cooking temperature. Noticing recipes independently. To avoid the dish’s popularity, Sichuan an excessive intake of calories, Airlines brought this rural deli- meals served on their flights have cacy, cooked in a natural, casual been carefully selected to take style, up into the sky. Additionally, into consideration healthiness and popular Chengdu street food nutrition. The amount of calories fare like Sichuan pepper beef, is kept under 600 (the maximum stir-fried pork, Sichuan pepper amount recommended for an adult chicken, boiled fish fillet, and meal according to the UN Food many others can also be found and Agriculture Organization). on Sichuan Airlines flights. Like While indulging themselves in gourmet food, passengers are spared the trouble of worrying about the risk of gain- spread across the this or that.” grilled corn, Laoganma chili ing weight. country: “Sichuan A post receiving sauce, stir-fried pork, chicken, If you happen Airlines makes their many likes on the sausage, bacon, Gongbao shrimp to fly Sichuan passengers fat.” online Q&A platform balls, seafood hot pot, boiled Airlines during a festival, you A perceptive neti- zen Zhihu (the Chinese version of beef with rice, Mapo tofu with will be served sesame glutinous posted her experience of a Sichuan Quora) puts it like this: “Only on meatballs, glutinous rice balls in rice balls for Lantern Festival, Airlines flight from boarding to Sichuan Airlines flights can you osmanthus sweet rice wine, and chocolates for Valentine’s Day, landing: “I was given beverages as see stewards and stewardesses so on. A variety of Sichuan dishes a lollipop for both adults and soon as I had boarded the plane, nonchalantly carrying baskets full and snacks are provided, including children during Children’s Day, and then rice and side dishes were of corn and potatoes asking: ‘Do the most common Chengdu street rice dumplings for Dragon Boat served. Soon after that bread you want potatoes? Corn?’ like snack: egg pancakes. It is worth Festival, moon cakes during and cakes were offered, and then farmers peddling their goods at mentioning that these dishes Mid-Autumn Festival, laba drinks again. While a steward- the market.” are not only for business class congee for Laba Festival, and so ess was busy handing out rice, a As far as we can gather, this passengers. Economy class also on. Through these special treats, steward was following behind her airline is dedicated to pampering has access to a wide range of Sichuan Airlines extends their with a glass jar in his hand, asking their passengers with a variety delicacies. wishes to passengers in the hope us if we wanted a scoop of chili of choices, including a small hot Food is one of the most import- that these festive delicacies will sauce. Throughout the meal, we pot, Maocai, Dan Dan noodles, ant services for many passengers. help dilute the sadness of not being were asked if we wanted to add Zhong dumplings, roast potatoes, Sichuan Airlines puts a lot of with one’s family for the holidays.

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Zhang Chunjie ast February, Zhang Head Chef of Xinhua Air Catering Chunjie paid a visit to Wenchang, on Hainan Making the L Island. Like other tour- ists, the first step of his journey was to “eat chicken”. But Zhang didn’t go to any restaurant in the city. Instead, he went directly to a villager’s house in the coun- tryside, where he observed and Best learned the process of selecting a chicken, removing the feath- ers and preparing the bird, rice, soup, and sauce. “It is a castrated rooster. Cook Airline the chicken right after plucking the feathers, but not for too long. Half of the soup is used to make vegetable soup, and the other FoodText Cao Shenshen half is used to cook the rice. Photos Wang Yang The rice in the south is dry, and the chicken oil will moisten it, making it quite tasty. The sauce is made up of chicken broth, Hainan lime, some minced garlic and green onions, as well as some chili sauce and a special locally-made soy sauce.” Zhang Chunjie’s mouth is watering,as if he was still eating chicken in that “Quarantining” Oneself mobile phones are not allowed villager’s home in Wenchang. with the Food during work. The Beijing Xinhua After coming back to Beijing, Airport Food Company that Zhang wondered, “how can I Zhang Chunjie is a Beijinger Zhang works for prepares food for bring the renowned Hainanese through and through and has a Hainan Airlines, Sichuan Airlines, Chicken Rice onto an airplane?” good sense of humor. When we American Airlines, Delta Air lines, As we know, it’s not simple first met, he was wearing a white and Israel Airlines, among others. to cook a famous dish on an chef uniform that made him look The civil aviation industry calls it airplane. From ingredients select- like an expert surgeon. He is the “in-flight catering”. ing, to the means of cooking, head chef of Xinhua Air Catering. Zhang starts work at 8:30 in the it’s much more complicated than He once worked for the Shangri- morning. He enters a password, cooking on the ground. “For the La Hotel and a Swissotel and opens the door and changes utmost safety, any poultry on a specializes in western cuisines. into a disinfected white plane must be well done. So, we When people call him “chef”, uniform. He has to wrap might choose small chickens, he immediately corrects them: his hair in a disposable which are more tender.” As for “Zhang would make me more hairnet, however short how to retain the correct flavor, comfortable.” Every day, he rides it is, wears a mask Zhang Chunjie says: “To ensure his bike for eight kilometers to the with only his eyes that the chicken isn’t dry, we Hainan Airlines base on North exposed and covers could smear some chicken oil on Huoyun Road of the Beijing his shoes. To enter the it and wrap it in lotus leaves. We Capital International Airport. He airline food workshop, could also put some concentrated needs to go through a security one has to quarantine chicken oil in the dish. This way, checkpoint before he makes it oneself with the food. after the chicken is reheated, it to his work station. Sharp items The “one-off preparation would still taste soft and tender.” and lighters are forbidden.Even room” is only the starting

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point of the in-flight meals prepa- Limited Ingredients numbers that Zhang mentions ration process. Hand washing is Unlike a restaurant on the the most. All meat, poultry, and mandatory before entering the ground, where dishes can be seafood can only be processed room. “Wash your hands with served directly from the kitchen, after being cooked for 15 seconds sanitizer for at least 20 seconds. airline food must be sterilized, at 74°C. The raw and rare meat Rinse your hands with warm cooked, and immediately blast- we may be accustomed to eating is water, wipe them dry with paper chilled and refrigerated before inappropriate on airplanes. towels and then soak them in being repackaged and sent onto “We seldom use leafy vegeta- a disinfectant solution for ten airplanes and finally distributed to bles, because they lose their color seconds…” The dressing standards passengers after being reheated in after being heated. There are often and hand washing sketch are an oven. A major concern: ingre- jolts of turbulence on the plane, hung up on the wall right above dients must retain their shape, so ribs are also inappropriate.” the sink. The next step is to go quality, and color even after this Ingredients with bones and spurs, through the air-shower. After the long process. perishables, those with crumbs door is closed, a nozzle spurts In the airline food workshop, and pungent smells should be used highly filtrated clean, strong wind the temperature must stay under only rarely or not at all. “To work for ten seconds. Then you must 18 all year round. In the rough in in-flight catering is to attempt use a lint roller to remove hair and processing workshop, workers to maximize possibilities with very other foreign matter. Finally, you clean, sterilize, soak and cut fruits limited materials.” It may seem sign a registration form. and vegetables. Soon, the cleaned a pity to limit a chef’s creativity, Color, flavor, and taste are fruit and vegetables are repack- but in fact, numerous chefs are the usual standards for meals aged and refrigerated for future fascinated by it, like Zhang – who on the ground, but in the world use. In the cold kitchen, to ensure has been in the airline catering of in-flight catering, safety and sanitation, fruits and vegetables industry for 18 years. In Zhang’s hygiene are also a priority. So in must be sterilized three times with mind, the most appropriate cuisine this “special” kitchen, no dust is their skin on before processing. for the main course on planes is allowed. Its hygienic standards The workshop is also very strict stewed food. It not only tastes are no lower than that of five-star when choosing its ingredients. better after being reheated but also hotels. From choosing suppli- 74 and 15 seconds are the two doesn’t change appearance. ers to food acceptance checks, processing, repackaging,and trans- portation, every step must remain clean and safe. Strange or peculiar ingredients are not permitted for in-flight catering. From business licenses and health inspections to quar- antine certifications and regular examination reports, many restrictions are in place to ensure food safety.

Given Full Play with

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“In-flight catering is to bring technology. It tends to be a large- accurate to the gram. part of a giant machine that works the new out of the old.” This is scale and industrialized affair. In the last step of production, to support such a huge number of Zhang’s motto. When working An “automatic rice packaging the staff in the food pairing passengers. Each in-flight meal is with a famous dish, Zhang tries machine” may look ordinary workshop repackages meals in like a tiny screw in that machine. to transfer the familiar taste into to us, but it actually plays an preparation for transportation We may ask ourselves, why is it a delicacy that can be eaten on extremely important role in to the different airlines, with always beef noodles and chicken a plane – which requires much the development of airline food production tags, loading tags and rice on the plane? Actually, the thinking and experimentation. production. Before this machine’s checking tags. In this room, each economy class menu of Hainan Zhang uses cumin lamb as an invention, each serving of rice package of food is also accurate to Airlines changes once a month, example, “due to altitude hypox- for each economy class passenger the gram. and the business class menu is ia, all food becomes quite dry so meal was scooped into tinfoil by renewed every 7 to 10 days, in I add some onions when making hand. Even the most conscientious A Secret That Cannot Be case regular business travelers cumin lamb. During reheating, the work team couldn’t ensure that might have the same meal several moisture from the onions softens portions were of the same weight. Told times. Zhang says: “The economy the lamb, which helps make it But with the automatic rice pack- In Beijing, three suppliers class of Hainan Airlines provides taste better.” aging machine, all a cook needs provide airline food for over three kinds of hot meals for With airline food, you’ll find to do is to put the cooled, cooked 1,700 departure flights every day. passengers to choose from. Among that most of the work is done by rice into the machine. It then They are Beijing Air Catering them, rice is the most popular, machines. “This is an automatic dispenses the rice and makes rice Co., LTD. ( Beijing Air Catering), making up 60% of passenger cooking pot with a reinforced lumps of a fixed length and width established on May 1, 1980, choices.Noodles account for base. It is used to make chicken — each about 150 grams. This Beijing Airport Inflight Kitchen 30%, and western food represents soup, it’s non-stick and self-cool- greatly reduces labor intensity and LTD., which opened in 1996, only 10%. ing.” Zhang points to a pot as improves work efficiency. and Beijing Xinhua Air Catering What shelf life is an in-flight he speaks. In his eyes, airline After entering the hot kitch- (Xinhua Air Catering), operating meal expected to have? 24 hours, food is not about showing off the en, we see a few sets of screens since 2005. Among them, the most including the time it spends being chef’s cooking skills, but about displaying the production plan experienced, Beijing Air Catering, processed, cooked, refrigerated, making the most out of modern for the day. The ingredients are provides food services for over and transported. Once an in-flight meal is carried out of the kitchen, there’s no going back. If a flight is canceled, the in-flight meals that are taken out of storage cannot be returned. Zhang says: “We run into this type of situation almost every day.” You see vegetables and meat, rice and noodles. A seemingly tiny in-flight meal actually includes “everything”. It is in fact not much different from a meal on the ground. For an airline compa- ny, airline catering is a huge expenditure. In order to retain 500 flights of 40 airlines every day their passengers and satisfy their with 100,000 meals. Xinhua Air diverse needs, airlines spend a Catering, Zhang’s employer,cooks huge amount of money on improv- 27,000 meals a day and more than ing the quality of their catering. 30,000 during peak periods. “In the past, before discount tick- In 2017, the total amount of ets, airline companies could make airline food in China was 525 money from the airline food they million meals. As the second provided. But now that tickets busiest airport in the world, the are cheap and the cost of airline passenger throughput of Beijing catering is rising, airlines barely Capital International Airport make money.” Maybe this is the broke 100 million in 2018. Each secret that cannot be told about link in the civil aviation chain is airline food.

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of the aviation industry. As an After that first lunch, airplane couldn’t eat hot food at normal increasing number of wealthy passengers had nothing but cold flying altitudes. Indeed, eating on The History of people began to travel by air, meals for 20 years. The early an airplane in the past was not a airlines jumped at the new market, DC-3 aircraft relied heavily on simple proposition. outfitting their planes with the passengers to make money, and In order to serve hot food tothe latest heating equipment and there was neither an airtight wealthy customers, airplanes had hiring full-time chefs to cook pressurization system nor heating to descend out of flying altitudes fancy meals for their wealthy equipment on board, so passengers to allowchefs to cook and had - passengers. had to wrap themselves in blan- to wait for passengers to finish In Flight Before that, the very first kets and eat cold meals in cabins eating to climb back up. This was in-flight meal in aviation history that were close to zero degrees. done to minimize the impact of was served in 1910 on a flight Hot drinks such as coffee were low cabin temperatures on the from London to Paris – at a price made in the hangar before being food. However, this also caused of 3 shillings per lunch (about $50 taken onto the planes. new problems. When the plane Meals today). A Handley Page aircraft In 1936, United Airlines became descended from the stratosphere Text Echao flew this route, and passengers the first airline to install kitchens into the troposphere, it was easi- Photos KLM,Air New Zealand & Emirates were given cold food for lunch on planes and serve hot meals. ly affected by turbulence. It not because aircraft conditions at the However, due to poor pressur- only placed heavy demands on time made hot meals impossible. ization at the time, passengers the pilot’s ability to choose calm routes and avoid turbulence but also put forward new requirements lmost everyone who people’s sensitivity to sweet and for food safety. Food had to be has traveled by plane savory flavors decreases by about easy to swallow and couldn’t get has had to make the 30%. Lufthansa also speculates that stuck in the throat. After meeting same difficult choice: “if you ate the same airline food at all the requirements, cooked food A was served on porcelain and silver “Beef Noodles or Chicken Rice?”. sea-level, you might be surprised by After having to select one of these how good these chefs really are.” tableware for the wealthy gentle- two equally unpalatable options, it However, what is even more men and ladies. might be hard to muster the courage surprising is that this study indicat- Stephanie Butler, author of to call yourself a foodie ever again. ed that in addition to Chicken Rice Airplane Food, from Sandwiches In-flight meals taste awful. This and Beef Noodles, airline passen- to Smoked Salmon, wrote that: is a fact that even the airlines can’t gers could also enjoy fancy meals “In a 1938 article detailing the deny. Otherwise, they wouldn’t go cooked by chefs directly on the food service program at Newark to the trouble of defending them- plane. Could it be true? In fact, this Airport, Mrs. G. Thomas French selves. For example, a Lufthansa used to happen over 80 years ago. explained how she managed the study found that at high altitudes, The 1930s were the Golden Age kitchen program for the entire airport. She proudly noted that her kitchen ‘does all our own baking– pies, tarts, pastries, cream roll desserts, bread and muffins.’ She even knew individual passengers likes and schedules, and wouldn’t serve the same meal two consec- utive Mondays if she knew that meant a specific traveler would have the same meal twice.” Another factor that pushed airplane food to a higher level was price control. Back then, in the United States, the price for all tick- ets on a particular route was the same. If the price was the same, how should people decide which airline to fly with? In-flight meals became a deciding element.

26 27 Focus

In 1958, Pan American World Swiss Air Airways filed a famous lawsuit also took against the four major European advantage airlines over “When is a sandwich of Pan-Am’s not a sandwich?”. The story began ignorance of with the Trans-Atlantic routes. European food The ticket prices for the routes had standards and remained prohibitively expensive served similar- until these five airlines and the ly extravagant IATA (International Air Transport selections to Association) marked them down. their passengers. In exchange for the discount, the Pan-Am took the airlines stopped serving main other four airlines meals, and passengers flying from to court in Europe to Europe to North America only finally sort it out: “when is a had sandwiches to eat for their sandwich not a sandwich?” journey. However, after everyone The 1950s was truly the Golden seen in a boarded and the flight took off, Age of airline food. By that time, fine restaurant on the ground was Pan-Am was shocked. “(…) five air travel had become a major also found on the plane. slices of ox tongue, a lettuce heart, trend the world over, and – with At that time, airplane food asparagus, and sliced carrots—on the advent of pressurized cabin was undoubtedly a luxury good. a slice of bread (…)”, Scandinavian – the quality of airplane food If social media had existed back Air Systems (SAS) actually called reached new heights. Tablecloths, then, beautiful girls and handsome this a “sandwich”! KLM Royal silverware, red wine, steaks and men from rich families would Dutch Airlines, Air France and desserts, everything that could be inevitably have taken selfies of their airplane food and posted them online to flaunt their wealth. But like every Golden Age, airplane food finally entered its Bronze Age 10 years later and was kicked out of the luxury world. meal’s price has dropped to 20 In the 1960s, as an increas- Exquisite meals cooked by our or 30 yuan? ing number of ordinary people Now we come to the Chinese got access to airport terminals, master chefs will make you feel part of the story. Similar to the airplanes gradually became a history of international civil avia- regular means of transportation. like you’re in a fine restaurant. tion, the quality of in-flight meals Meanwhile, fewer and fewer on domestic flights was remark- passengers were willing to pay We make flight different. ably high in the past. This was for airline tickets that included again because, in the early days of sumptuous meals. As the demand cost-saving practices once they Actually, although today’s in-flight domestic civil aviation, only the for luxury food decreased, airlines have been adopted, and the quality meals are generally considered to rich and privileged could afford started cutting their costs and and quantity of in-flight meals be awful, you can still find some a plane ride, so the standard contracting out their in-flight have begun to suffer. For instance, airlines like Etihad Airways that for in-flight meals was relative- meals to large catering companies. Delta Air Lines removed a straw- offer real in-flight cooking. ly high. From the few existing Ever since, in-flight meals have berry from the salad served to As time goes by, and the Golden photos of the time, we see that been on a downhill slide. Jason first-class passengers, which saved Age of in-flight meals fades further early domestic flights provided Kessler, founder of the Fly & Dine the airline $210,000 a year. In the into history, in-flight meals have not only ordinary food but also blog said that in-flight meals are early 2000s, Northwest Airlines become less and less enjoyable, local specialties such as Beijing going from bad to worse. (which has since merged with and this downward trend is likely Roast Duck. Since the global economic crisis United Airlines) canceled a pretzel to continue. And yet, with the In the 1980s, direct flights were and deregulation efforts from ration for every passenger, saving growing number of frequent flyers, launched between China and the government agencies, airlines $2,000,000 a year. After learning more and more passengers are United States after the Reform and spend less on their passengers so that, do you still believe it’s the complaining about their bland Opening-Up. Before Pan-Am’s San as to further cut ticket prices and moisture and air pressure that is airplane meals. But what do you Francisco to Beijing route was put increase sales. It’s hard to abandon to blame for bad airplane food? expect when you know that your into operation, a US delegation

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found during their inspections that airlines have gradually adjusted there was no decent aviation cater- their in-flight meals. Those deli- ing company at the Beijing Capital cious early meals are now rarely International Airport, so they served to the economy class. Travel suggested that flights departing However, with the rapid from Beijing should stop in Tokyo development of the civil aviation and have their food replenished at industry and the rise of “The the Tokyo Haneda Airport before Enlightened Foodie” in China, an continuing on to San Francisco. increasing number of young people The Chinese side had a different are picky and choosy with their suggestion. Hong Kong Maxim’s in-flight meals. Passengers are provide tasty but cheap meals? Caterers Limited was invited to now more concerned with their This is still a global question invest in the Beijing Air Catering meal’s palatability. According to that they haven’t been able to Company. This became the the International Travel Catering answer. You will find that deli- first international joint venture Association (ITCA), palatability of cious in-flight meals have become in China since the founding of in-flight meals has entered the top a dream that can only be entirely the People’s Republic of China. three considerations for passengers achieved in fancy words. Quite The company began providing- when choosing an airline. Perhaps a few airlines claim that they’ve meals for international flights on it’s reasonable to not eat or have invited chefs from renowned May 2, 1981. a light snack on short-haul flights restaurants to cook for their Since the 1990s, the reform of under 2 hours. But for longer passengers, but after you read a China’s Secret: Enter Hainan’s Green Paradise / 32 flight regulations and the econom- flights across an ocean, the quality menu that lists “Stewed Chicken ic development have made the of in-flight meals begins to directly Rice with Red Wine,” you will Living Like a Local in Shenzhen / 36 airplane a fact of life for a grow- affect a passenger’s entire flight soon realize that your choice is WOW Shenzhen / 39 ing number of Chinese. To reduce experience. still limited to “Beef Noodles” and airfare and attract customers, However, how can airlines “Chicken Rice”. An Eye- and Soul-Opening Journey in Nepal / 40

30 Travel | Inside China

hen you think of explore the local scenery, enjoy Hainan, you might traditional culture and food, and first picture sunny participate in many village themed W beaches, palm trees, events, where you’ll gain a deep and sea breezes, but Hainan also understanding of and appreciation has a stunning green country- for Hainan’s village culture. side. Visit the rainforest and the mountain wilderness, where the Mystical Li and Miao air is clean and fresh and where you may meet an old Li Minority Villages, Hidden in the Enter Hainan’s Green Paradise granny who will give you a Rainforest thumbs up, a toothless grin, and The Li and Miao minority Text & Photos Hainan Tourism Publicity & Promotional Center greet you in the local Li language. people have farmed Hainan’s C h i n a’s S e c r e t Enter a Miao village, where you’ll countryside for generations. The Translated by Nicki Johnson be greeted by a young Miao Li people originally came to woman wearing traditional cloth- Hainan around 5,000 years ago, ing, singing a song of welcome… and are the island’s earliest known You’ve probably been to so many cities, and seen so much beautiful scenery, but If you happen to be lucky inhabitants, while the Miao came what do you know about China’s countryside? Located at the southernmost point enough to come to Hainan in to Hainan over 400 years ago. of China, Hainan island boasts a countryside that has a very different local flavor. April or May, you should Visiting central Hainan and learn- definitely head out to a Li ing about the Li and Miao cultures Here, the Li and Miao minorities believe that all living things have a soul, and the or Miao village to enjoy a first-hand in one of their many coasts are dotted with tiny fishing villages. Traditional culture still thrives, quietly traditional local festival: traditional villages is an opportu- Sanyuesan, which falls nity you won’t want to miss. living on in every aspect of the colorful countryside. on the third day of the Breathtaking Zahan Village is third lunar month. located up in a mountain valley at The Rural Tourism an elevation of around 800 meters Cultural Festival, above sea level, in Hongmao also celebrated Town, Qiongzhong. Here you’ll around this see waterfalls flowing above a time, is a sea of clouds and find a country great oppor- village with Miao-style courtyard tunity to houses. Taking a walk here is like

Sanyuesan Celebration

32 33 Travel | Inside China

strolling through the heavens. a home, and slowly, a village relics can be seen throughout the an amazing village vacation expe- the shimmering lake, as mist curls Tips See traditional Li Minority was born. village, from the Ming Dynasty rience will be at your fingertips. up towards the high green hills. “boat-shaped” thatched mud Fengtang Village, located in Memorial Arch and the Qing Wake up after a good night’s rest Soak in an outdoor volcanic 1. The “Sanyuesan” Li & Miao Minority Festival falls on April 7th this year. The houses in Zajin Village, in Baoting Yongxing Town, Haikou, is over Dynasty temple to the volcanic at the “Courtyard Era Guesthouse” rock hot spring, get a traditional Rural Tourism Cultural Festival will County’s Sandao Town. In front of 400 years old. At the village stone houses, roads, and ancient in Beireng Village, located in Jiaji Chinese medicine foot massage, be held from April to May. If you’re in each door, you’ll find a frog totem entrance, a 300 hundred-year- wells. The village’s two nearby Town, Qionghai, and head over stroll through green fields, and Hainan during this time, you absolutely ’ and sculpture, which the Li people old Banyan Tree stoops over a large ponds seem to be a pair of to the “Beireng Guest Hall” to enjoy many other relaxing coun- can t miss these events! believe will bring them more sons deep, tranquil pond. Here, each deep, blue eyes, serenely gazing see a display of local folk culture, tryside activities in Duncha 2. Hainan boasts China’s most convenient and good weather for farming. house and wall was made from out from the earth at passersby. including Li brocade and carved Village, located in Jiuzhou Town, entry policy! On May 1, 2018, Hainan’s Learn to weave Li brocade, play a volcanic stones, skillfully fitted coconuts, then sit down at a straw- Qiongshan District, Haikou. 59 Country Visa Free Entry Policy came bamboo flute, pick your own fresh together without plaster or mortar. thatched coffee shop and enjoy There’s so much to enjoy in into effect, making it extremely easy Stay in a Beautiful, and convenient to visit Hainan. fruit, try the local cuisine, and live They have stood for hundreds of a cup of locally sourced coffee, Hainan’s vibrant countryside, the life of a villager for a day. years without any need for repair. Unique Village before taking a stroll or a leisurely and the more than one hundred Walking along the winding volca- In addition to traditional Li & bike ride through fields of green “Coconut Level” village tour- Mysterious Volcanic Rock nic stone paths, you’ll feel like Miao villages and ancient volcanic palms and betelnut trees. ism locations each have their you’ve traveled back in time. stone dwellings, Hainan boasts Head over to Baoting County’s own special charm, with deep Hainan Official Villages Tourism During the Song Dynasty, many other unique villages that Xiangshui Town and stay the green scenery and unique local Information Several thousand years ago, Luoyi Village, in Chengmai are worth a visit. These special night in a wooden cabin on the customs. Looking to add some- Website a volcano erupted in northern County’s Laocheng Town, was places not only preserve their waterfront in Maozhen Village. thing completely different to your Hainan. The red-hot lava solid- a horse relay post for journeys original cultures but also provide When darkness falls, a vast sea vacation? The villages of Hainan, ified, becoming volcanic rock. along Hainan’s West Coast, excellent vacation facilities for of fireflies lights up the night, with their ancient traditions and Hainan Visa There, on the barren rock, a few and the name Luoyi (relay post) travelers. All you have to do is get shining like glittering stars. In the refreshing simplicity, are exactly Free & Visa on Arrival Policy hardy Hainanese began to build reflects this history. Ancient there, and everything you need for morning, practice yoga alongside what you need! Guide

Rural Tourism Cultural Festival

Maozhen Village, Fengtang Village, Baoting Haikou

Luoyi Village, Beireng Village, Chengmai Qionghai

Duncha Village, Zahan Village, Haikou Qiongzhong

34 35 Travel | City Insider

How does one Parks, mountains and beach resorts are all fabulous places to spend the day. spend a day like a I personally prefer to hike on Lianhua Hill in the morning, shop at malls in the Living Like a local in Shenzhen? afternoon, and have a delectable dinner and chat with friends at night. What are the Dameisha, with golden-sand beaches and crystal-clear sea water, has become city’s must-see one of the greatest tourist attractions in the city, especially in summer. One attractions? special thing about the resort is that there is an elevator which can carry riders to a sightseeing platform 62 meters above the sand, offering visitors a scenery in Shenzhen of vast sea and blue sky. There are also many amusement parks well worth visiting, such as Shenzhen Window of the World, OCT Bay and China Folk Text Wang Jingli Culture Village. Local What is the best- Sunrise Art Center, an art gallery created by Chen Qiuzhi. The center was ang Jingli was born in Hunan Province but moved kept secret away built from a century-old Hakka home. Chen is a prominent ink artist in China, to Shenzhen — the youngest modern city in south- from the tourist and his art pieces are displayed in the gallery. Besides, there are many exquisite ern China — in 2015 after graduating from trail? coffee shops, which are wonderful spots to refresh one’s mind and rest after a Wuniversity and has become a journalist. She visit. Dafeng Oil Painting Village, where you can find many oil paintings repro- said that it was the inclusiveness, youth and possibilities ductions, is located nearby. offered by the city that made her decide to settle there. “Wherever you come from, you are a SZer after moving to Where do you take Of course, we go for dim sum, a typical style of Cantonese cuisine. Food SZ” is a saying widely spread in Shenzhen, according to Wang. guests to taste is served in small portions, inside steamer baskets or on small plates, and is After living in the city for nearly four years, Wang has formed Shenzhen cuisine? best enjoyed with tea. Chua Lam’s Dim Sum is the one you must visit. As you a strong affection towards the city and considersit her “second can tell from the name, the restaurant was opened by Chua Lam, a renowned hometown”. She shared with Sky Times some of the city’s secrets. Chinese food critic. One of the restaurant’s highlights is its creative combi- Shenzhen has developed from a small fishing community into nation of traditional foodand modern elements. Furthermore, Shenzhen, as a one of the most populous and modern cities in China. As a special culturally diverse city, offers a wide array of high-quality food, from China’s economic zone, dazzling progress in various fields, especially tech- five cuisines to Western restaurants. nology, has taken place in Shenzhen. Now, the city aims to raise these developments to a higher level by fully utilizing the role of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.

36 37 Travel | Inside China Travel | WOW Shenzhen Wine and Dine at Shenzhen’s Finest

FOOD FOR THOUGHT DRINK WORTH SIPPING ELBA ITALIAN THE DRAWING ROOM RESTAURANT AND THE ST. REGIS BAR A contemporary take on Nestled on the hotel’s Venetian-inspired decor greets 96th floor, The Drawing guests at Elba, and unexpected Room and The St. Regis Bar accents hint at the restaurant’s avant- present a contemporary, locally influenced garde style. Natural light streams in through interpretation of a traditional lounge. floor-to- ceiling windows, and sleek, crystal Rich royal blue curtains line the corridor, interspersed column chandeliers illuminate modern, face-shaped among the hotel’s steel framework and soaring windows white chairs and an eclectic, complementary array of with panoramic city views, serving as a prelude to the regal gold, eggplant, and sienna armchairs, which are lounge’s overall color scheme, featuring royal blue, purple, joined by sleek modern black tables. and bronze. Complete with a pizza oven, an open kitchen reveals In the open Drawing Room space, intimate seating invites the restaurant’s expert chefs preparing Italian favorites guests to enjoy the place’s signature High Tea, featuring and modern interpretations, including homemade pasta, over 40 varieties of tea along with personalized, seductive antipasti, and pizza, which are perfectly paired with the savory bites and classical music. ’ Which restaurant If you like beef and hotpot, my recommendation is Shantou Bahelihaiji Beef. Unlike restaurant s large selection of wines by the glass, select Situated within the larger Drawing Room, The St. Regis is your personal traditional hotpot places in China, where differentmeats such as pork, chicken, and vintages, and grappas. Bar offers beverages, including an array of select wines favorite? mutton are served, they only provide beef cuts. There are also numerous side dishes to and a celebrated single malt whiskey collection, in addition ’ choose from, like tofu and vegetables. 99th floor, The St. Regis Shenzhen, No. 5016 Shennan to signature cocktails such as the Yan Mary, the hotel s Road East, Luohu District, Shenzhen tempting interpretation of the globally recognized St. Regis’ Bloody Mary. What does a If you enjoy the nightlife, then Shenzhen is the city for you. You can find clubs, Monday –Sunday typical night out pubs and live music in different districts, such as Coco Park in Futian District and Lunch: 11:30 a.m.– 2:30 p.m. 96th floor, The St. Regis Shenzhen, No. 5016 Shennan involve? OCT and Window of the World in Nanshan District. If you prefer a quiet relaxing Dinner: 6:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. Road East, Luohu District, Shenzhen night out, you can take a walk at Civic Center and enjoy fascinating light shows. Monday – Sunday 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 a.m. What is your latest I really enjoy embracing nature whenever I have some me-time. Wutong great find? Mountain is my favorite place recently, where a wide variety of flowers have been in bloom. You can also jog on greenways or climb to the top of the mountain, the highest in Shenzhen, to get yourself out of the bustling city life for a while.

Where do you shop Dongmen shopping area in Luohu District, established about 300 years ago, is PLACES WORTH VISITING for fashion? one of the oldest places in Shenzhen where you can find local products as well as street food. Huaqiangbei Street is a must-visit shopping area for electronics. In WINDOW OF THE WORLD addition, shopping malls such as MixC, Coco Park and Coastal City, where you Shenzhen Window of the World is a fantastic Leaning Tower of Pisa, and the Tower of can enjoy not only luxury goods but also high-quality cinemas, bookstores, and replica park situated at the Overseas Chinese London carry you to the cradle of classical European restaurants, are popular among Shenzhen residents. Town. There, you can see vivid replicas of the culture. The replicas are presented in 1:1, 1:5,and 1:15 world’s wonders, historical heritages, and famous scenic scale. When is the best From October to December. The cool temperature in the fall makes it a very sites, including the Mahamuni Pagoda of Mandalay and time to visit? comfortable season for travelers. the Angkor Wat of Cambodia. European architectural No.9037 Shennan Road, Nanshan District, Shenzhen splendors, such as the Eiffel Tower, Ancient Athens, the 9:00 a.m. - 10:30 p.m.

38 39 Travel | World

epal, a country complex of beautiful temples bordering China and shrines revered by both and India, is not Hindus and Buddhists. It is easy to find on a there that the kings of Nepal N are crowned and their corona- An Eye- and map. Yet, this small nation has a diverse geography and tions solemnized. is home to eight of the world’s In the southern part of the Soul-Opening tallest mountains, including square stands a three-story Mount Everest, the highest building, Kumari Ghar. It point on Earth. In addition, is where Kumari, the living countless temples and relics goddess, resides. Nepal is the Journey in attract those eager to discover only country in the world its splendid history of where a living goddess still Hinduism and Buddhism. exists. Kumari is the mani- My trip to Nepal start- festation of the divine female ed before I even landed at energy and is embodied by Tribhuvan Airport. Since a young girl. The selection I was flying in through the process is complex. The west side of the country, it prospective divinity should was suggested to me that I be serene and fearless and pick a window seat in order should never have shed blood. Text Qu Huizhu to enjoy the view of Mount Once selected, she stays in Everest. The Himalayas were Kumari Ghar and appears to getting closer and closer as her admirers at the window the plane made its approach, at a certain time each day Nepal and I couldn’t believe my eyes until her first menstruation at the spectacle offered by begins and another Kumari Mount Everest. is chosen. My first destination was Another place that the capital, Kathmandu. The shouldn’t be missed is city’s modern activities and Pashupatinath Temple. timeless culture are flawlessly Located 5 kilometers east of in tune, making it a feast of Kathmandu, it is considered discovery for backpackers. one of the sacred temples Exquisite temples hide in of the Hindu faith and is the city’s narrow lanes, and part of the seven groups of serene stupas are the symbol monuments that illustrate of mindfulness, peace and the cultural heritage site of religion. The 2015 earthquake Kathmandu Valley, according devastated parts of the city, to UNESCO. What makes including UNESCO sites. But Pashupatiath unique is that Kathmandu gathered itself, it is the place Nepali people keeping intact its joyful spirit hold Hindu funerals and it is known for. cremations. Thamel is the business The same way Indian area of Kathmandu, where Hindus go to Varanasi to you can easily find hotels of spend their last days on different levels and prices. earth before being cremat- Walking along the main ed at the burning ghats street for 10 minutes, you can next to the Ganges River, get to Kathmandu Durbar Nepali devotees are taken to Square. It is located in front Pashupatinath before they are of the old royal palace of the about to die. Once the person former Kathmandu Kingdom has drawn his or her last and is one of three Durbar breath, the body is wrapped Squares in Nepal. There is a in white and placed next to

40 41 Travel | World

the river to be washed. The family is Sarangkot, combines carries the body to a ghar near the northwest of the adventure and river, where it is cremated. The city. From there, sightseeing. ashes are then thrown into the you can see the Paragliding Culture holy water of the Bagmati River. sun coming up from is another way to No matter the time of day, the Machapuchare and the light explore the Kathmandu ceremony is held right after a body slowly covering the Himalayas. Valley and enjoy a bird’s eye is brought here. For trekking lovers, Sarangkot is view. You can see the Kathmandu After leaving Kathmandu, my just a pre-trek warm-up. The real Valley, the Himalayas, and forests next stop is Pokhara. Unlike the thrill is the legendary Annapurna and feel the chill of the cool wind. noisy capital, Pokhara is slow region. It is an area boasting If you are brave enough, there paced and quiet, even though it numerous trekking spots. Tourists are also perfect places for bungee is the third largest city in Nepal. can choose their route according jumping above a river near the Hotels and restaurants abound in to different levels of difficulty and Tibetan border. the lakeside area, offering their the amount of time needed, from I tried my best to experience as patrons a nice view of Phewa at least 3 days to a full 3-week much as I could during my 8-day Lake. You can also hire a bright Annapurna Circuit. trip. On the taxi to the airport, blue boat to tour the lake and By taking a half-day rafting I took one last glimpse of this enjoy the peaceful sunlight reflect- trip on Trishuli River, the scenery mysterious country while looking ed on the water’s surface. By boat, of the river, valleys, and temples at buildings moving past me along you can also get to the World alongside jumps in front of your the streets. For me, Nepal is no Peace Pagoda, atop a hill south of eyes. Without the challenge of longer a small country difficult Phewa Lake. It is the best place to huge rapids but still presenting to find on a map, but an amaz- watch the sunrise and sunset over plenty of excitement, beautiful ing place, with friendly people, Wuzhen, Between History and Modernity / 44 Pokhara. Another highly recom- scenery, and a peaceful environ- unforgettable scenery and splendid mended place to enjoy the sunrise ment, rafting in Trishuli River cultures. Successful First Test Flight at Beijing Daxing International Airport / 48

42 Culture

that bathe the space in abundant Wuzhen is probably the most sunlight. high profile among the region’s The resort’s aesthetics are indic- water towns — a real reinvention ative of a modern trend of serenity, of the past. Its traditional wooden yet connect to the area’s historic houses and charming river scenes past. Boasting a building area of have long been a source of creative 25,000 square meters, with 125 inspiration. Once glorious, the generously appointed suites, villas fortunes of the 1,300-year-old Wuzhen and pool villas, the resort’s overall town faded over the centuries. Between History and Modernity pattern takes villages south of the Young people fled for greener Yangtze River as its prototype and pastures, leaving in their down- Text & Photos Yang Di retains the spatial forms, basic trodden hometown an elderly elements, architectural scales and population living along silted-up color schemes of traditional tribes. canals in dilapidated houses. The resort comprises well-pro- The ambitious project to recon- portioned spaces full of twists struct the old town to look like it and turns, reminiscent of classic did 100 years ago was undertaken n the lower reaches of Canal, a key trade route between project that began in 1999 was group has turned to the water villages, with its own modern by the Wuzhen Tourism Co. Ltd. the Yangtze River seats Hangzhou and Beijing dating back completed a couple of years ago. town to open its third property waterways. The reconstruction work, which a water town called centuries. Nowadays, tourists flock to in China, and it is so far the most The “minimalist” aesthetics involved the relocation of nearly Wuzhen, command- Compared to other water towns this historic town, essentially a luxurious in this scenic town. tendency of Oriental culture meets all households in Xizhan (West O in the region, Wuzhen is a well-or- romantic (if somewhat kitschy) Inspired by Wuzhen’s maze of Gate), took about four years, ing a prime location as one of the demand of modern day travel- China’s Top 10 historical and ganized and developed water town living museum. canals and alleyways, the resort ers,in a space where history blends starting from 2003. Marks of cultural towns. known for its annual Wuzhen Though it’s just a two-hour is a picturesque beauty itself. with the contemporary era. modernization were removed, It is located at the center of Drama Festival and World drive from Shanghai, I had never The buildings and guest rooms Outside of the resort, the nearby paper mills and leather the golden triangle consisting of International Conference. stepped into this ancient water reinterpret the courtyard house 1,300-year-old water town is best factories were relocated, roads Shanghai, Hangzhou and Suzhou, It attracts 30,000 visitors a day town before the recent opening of style typical of this part of China, explored by randomly discovering were repaved, and old houses along the banks of the Grand since the ambitious renovation Alila Wuzhen. The luxury hotel with floor-to-ceiling windows its alleys. repaired. Today, the town is one

44 45 Culture

of eastern China’s most successful country’s most famous cultural heritage restoration projects. critics and novelists,and a visit to Walking inside the Wi-Fi his charming old residence is also Where to Stay covered scenic old town, visitors well worth it. Alila Wuzhen is Alila’s third prop- find little shops selling blue-dye Wuzhen Theatre Festival has erty in China. It opened last November and is only a five-minute drive from Wuzhen fabrics, discover the old textile become a cultural symbol of Water Town. The serene design is inspired by dyeing methods with tradition- Wuzhen. Offering various perfor- Wuzhen’s maze of quiet canals and ancient alleyways. ally printed and dyed garments mances each year, it has injected Its 125 suites, villas and pool villas are wrapped around hanging from tall wooden poles vitality into the town, with more private courtyards and intertwining waterways in a tranquil in the tourist areas, try local and more artists, performers and setting. Each element of the property, from the public areas sweet pastries and snacks, or audience from China and abroad. to the guest rooms, ensures modern comfort and a peaceful simply enjoy tea as they sit on Meanwhile, Wuzhen itself has environment for its guests. Alila Wuzhen offers themed excur- wooden benches with a view drawn worldwide attention in sions to enjoy the famous water town, for example, the local towards willow trees, bridges, recent years, due to its hosting of Shadow Play, Water Market and Bamboo Pole Performance ’ and pagodas. the World Internet Conference, on a canal tour. The resort s restaurant Shui Shi Kou has a mix of local, Asian and Western cuisinesto cater toevery There are two ticketed tour- an event participated by guests need. Spa Alila is highly recommended to embark ist areas: West Gate and East from over one hundred countries on a sensory experience through a powerful Gate,each with its distinct and regions. Last November, the and energizing process, with its signature charm. Both sides are protected 5th World Internet Conference treatments rooted in ancient Asian scenic areas where you can see concluded in Wuzhen, and more methods. black-tile-and-white-wall houses than 430 companies and organiza- connected by bridges flanking the tions from 25 countries showcased river. It probably takes a full day their latest products and technolo- to discover both sides. The east gies at this top dot-com event. side has a more traditional vibe, and the west side offersmodern theaters that host the annual Wuzhen Theatre Festival and the massive, cube-shaped Mu Xin Art Museum built atop a lake. The imposing structure is dedi- cated to the eponymous poet, the artist and Wuzhen native Mu Xin. It’s a very wellbuilt muse- um designed by New York’s OLI Architecture that houses Mu Xin’s literary works, manuscripts, paint- ings and calligraphy in permanent galleries. Wuzhen is also the birthplace of Mao Dun, one of the

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Successful First Test Flight at 49

eijing Daxing International Airport Beijing embraced its first test flight, using a Cessna model 680 Citation Sovereign aircraft with Ba Chinese flag adorning its tail. It was a smooth landing at the West One Runway, at 10:10 in the morning on January 22, 2019. Two years ago, on this same spot, President Xi Jinping visited Beijing Daxing International Airport and Daxing emphasized that “This new airport is a major land- mark project for the capital as well as a new driving force for the country.” “Good morning, Beijing. Test Flight 001, parking lot check, Daxing airport check, please release.” At 9:28, after receiving take-off clearance from air traffic control, the aircraft began its flight from International Beijing Capital International Airport to Beijing Daxing International Airport, 67 kilometers away. This test flight was a comprehensive one, acquir- ing all the technical specifications and information of the airport’s communication, navigation, radar Airport monitoring, and other systems. Such information is

Text Zhang Fengfan, Chen Jiajia, Xu Zhongchao, Lu Erjia, Xiao Min & Zhang jianing Photo by Chen Xiao

48 49 Culture | Lens

needed to ensure everything is working properly and safely. As the largest airport in China, Beijing Daxing International Airport has the highest number of runways, and it is important that safety is guaranteed before it goes into operation. From the temporary 6-meter-high air traffic mobile command vehicles, to incident command vehicles used to gather all types of ground security information, the administrator of the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC), Feng Zhenglin, inspected every- thing and made clear that air control was the most important element in the construction of a large-scale international airport, hoping that everyone would stay focused and ensure that no mistakes were made. To the south of West One Runway, deputy director of CAAC, Dong Zhiyi, stopped to check the count- less bright, energy-efficient LED navigation lights, all ready and awaiting future flights. Whether it was the western airport perimeter, the glide slope system, or security locations, the flight inspection teams surveyed every aspect to ensure no possible dangers or risks were present. At 9:50, the test plane swept through the clouds and quickly descended to land at Beijing Daxing International Airport. In the cabin, deputy director of CAAC, Lyu Erxue, observed the parameters on the flight inspection equipment, the most critical part of flight inspection. Captain Wei Gang held the thrust lever and slowly

Photo by Chen Xiao 50 51 Culture | Lens

pulled back, accurately controlling the aircraft from a distance of about 15 meters above the runway, matching the signals from the ground navigation equipment to calibrate and test parameters. At the other end, the controller was monitoring the position of the aircraft closely and directing the first “guest flight” at Beijing Daxing International Airport. “Test Flight 001, Daxing Tower, QNH 1020. Surface winds, wind direction 320°, wind speed 2 m/s. Runway 17L is clear. You’re free to land.”As the flight neared its completion, the controller issued the proper regulatory directives to the aircraft. At 10:10, the internal lights of the aircraft wings lit up, and the aircraft made a smooth south- ward landing. Immediately, the entire airport was engulfed in celebration, as people expressed their excitement for a perfect landing. In the watchtower, Feng Zhenglin applauded, and people embraced, cheered, or just stared. “These two tire tracks have recorded and witnessed history!” Standing next to the first tire tracks, Feng Zhenglin leaned over and said:“How clear the tire tracks are, and how solid our work is!”

Photo by Wang Yang 52 53 Culture | Lens

People Although the test flight only lasted 42 minutes, its success required the efforts of countless civil aviation staff members. “A flight inspection is a systematic project involving many departments and complicated situations. The coordinated support of airports, air traffic control, fire protection, aviation fueling, and transportation control are all very important,” said Feng Zhenglin. This first flight is only the begin- ning. In the future, there will be a second, third and fourth flight. And within the next 2 months, 4 more runaways, 6 Instrument Landing Systems (ILS), 7 lighting systems, 1 VHF Omni-directional Range (VOR) and Distance Measuring Equipment (DME), as well as a set of flight procedures, will all undergo thorough checks. Upon completion of the tests, the airport will be ready to go into operation. We hope that in six months, Beijing Daxing International Airport will be ready to receive visitors from all over the world, What Makes Emirates’ In-flight Entertainment System the Best in the World? / 56 welcoming in a new era. Photo by Chen Xiao Age-Defying Cai Guoqing / 62

54 People | Business WHAT MAKES EMIRATES’ IN- FLIGHT ENTERTAINMENT SYSTEM THE BEST IN THE WORLD? Text Guang Qining

ur goal is to and Entertainment. “Ice plays geostationary satellites to provide become one of different roles and functions, such in-flight Wi-Fi services because of “ the top-rated as TV station, movie theatre and the system’s power and stability. international Internetconnections. Our great Beyond military and governments, airlines.O Therefore, thorough enthusiasm for the job pushes us Emirates may very well be the service and attention to details to keep innovating and upgrading largest user of satellites in the are critical to us…” These words, the system,” Patrick Brannelly world. The company cooperates spoken by His Highness Sheikh explainswith a smile. with two satellite telecommuni- Ahmed bin Saeed Al-Maktoum, cations providers, Inmarsat and Chairman and CEO of the Unprofitable In-Flight Panasonic. Emirates Group, can be heard by Inmarsat operates a dedicat- passengers when they put on their Wi-Fi is Still Worth the ed array of global and regional earphones to enjoy the in-flight Money satellites. These currently serve entertainment system. In the age of mobile Internet, most of Emirates’ A380s with Unlike other airlines, whose passengers wish to have network its SwiftBroadband product. passengers don’t hear any message access whenever and wherever Panasonic cooperates with major after putting on their earphones to possible, even when they are satellite providers like Eutelsat and select programs from the inflight on a plane. Intelsat. The Panasonic network entertainment system, Emirates According to Brannelly, “It services later A380s and all 777s makes full use of this opportunity is incredible that currently, our – with their Ku and Ku HTS (high to deliver their brand promise. in-flight Wi-Fi welcomes 1.2 throughput satellite) network. “Once passengers have put on million visits per month, espe- As Brannelly puts it, “We their earphones, it is our mission cially when considering that most are gradually upgrading our to create connections with them airlines’ Wi-Fi usage never exceeds network system by replacing instead of serving them silence,” 10% of total passengers, due to SwiftBroadband on our older explains Patrick Brannelly, their high pricing. We think it A380 airliners with Ku-band Emirates’ Divisional Vice is meaningless to provide such network. The newly upgraded President, Customer Experience service if few customers use it. We data transmission speed could be – Inflight Entertainment & offer a certain amount of free data fivefold of the old system. By the Connectivity. so that everyone onboard can have end of 2019, 50 to 55 aircrafts It is probably thanks to such Internet access.” are expected to be upgraded for service-oriented concepts putting Brannelly reveals that although faster connections. From 2020, the focus on passengers’ feelings the in-flight Wi-Fi can reach with the introduction of the brand that Emirates has won the world’s 30 Mbps at the highest speed, new Boeing 777X series, we will best in-flight entertainment award it is hard and quite costly to be able to provide passengers with at the Skytrax World Airline sustain such bandwidth. For even faster in-flight Wi-Fi.” Awards for 14 consecutive years. now, the airline has invested Currently, with Emirates’ Emirates’ in-flight entertain- over ten million dollars in its in-flight Wi-Fi, it makes no differ- ment system is known asice, for in-flight Wi-Fi. ence for WeChat, WhatsApp and Information, Communications, Emirates has opted for e-mail applications. But, when it

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comes to online streaming, band- globe. To ensure cinematic diver- width and speed can be important. sity, less than half of the movies In the future, to meet passengers’ come from Hollywood, with the communications needs, network others originating from all over transmission speed could reach the world. about 5 to 15 Mbps. “In terms of Chinese films, the Brannelly also emphasizes that number has increased to 75 from while it is critical to improve Wi-Fi the original 25 one year ago. speed, it would be one-sided to When adding the 540 Hollywood focus only on speed. Providing movies with Chinese subtitles to a comprehensive in-flight enter- that number, there are now over tainment system for passengers to 600 films that Chinese passen- kill time should be themain focus. gers can watch without language “Our in-flight entertainment barriers.” system, ice, provides a comprehen- “Our inflight entertainment sive recreational experience with system has also improved in terms movies and other contents. Wi-Fi of music contents, which can be is only one of the services. It is our seen in the increase of Chinese belief that passengers can enjoy a music channels, from 30 one year better entertainment experience on ago to more than 120. We have Emirates because of our powerful seen that passenger happiness on in-flight media storage, rich video diversity of options rose 5%. Last content, and constantly improving year, the reason we could enrich network.” our channels to such a large extent Despite huge investments on was that we have bought larger the in-flight Wi-Fi, Emirates has media servers to install on planes. not turned a profit in this regard. That’s why we have more available Brannelly points out that “If it contents to ensure a better viewing takes 300 to 500 million dollars and listening experience.” for a satellite to operate in space Beyond the diversity of content, for 10 years, which means it would Emirates also pays special atten- cost 30 to 50 million dollars every tion to providing passengers with year. It is impossible to make a personalized experience. profits. But making a profit is not As early as 2007, Emirates was the reason why we provide this the first airline to provide Closed service. It’s the same as serving all Captions in its entertainment passengers with exquisite wine and system, the technology used by meals free-of-charge. We hope to the hard of hearing. As well as win the preference of our passen- showing the actors’ dialogues gers through excellent in-flight products and services.”

Diversified Channels for Personalized Services Ice has always been renowned for its rich and diversified contents. When ice was first launched in 2003, Emirates became the first airline in the world to provide over 500 in-flight channels. As of now, iceboasts over 4,000 channels and includes more than 1,000 movies from around the

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in subtitles, Closed Captions service for about ten days. Despite also include references to sound the fact that Emirates is one of effects used in the movie. In 2014, the leadersin terms of advertising Emirates became the first airline revenue on inflight entertainment to provide Audio Description on system, earnings in this regard are movies for the visually impaired still not enough to coverthe expens- passengers. It was unprecedented. es on film procurement. Moreover, The same audio and video movie procurement costs only contents are provided across the account for a small fraction of entire fleet operated by the airline, total expenditures, with the major spanning two different models component being the costs of of aircraft — Airbus A380 and in-flight networks, which require Boeing 777. Yet, even if different over ten million dollars. That’s passengers interact with the same why the company is still providing menu when they first use the subsidies for the icesystem today. system, the system quickly recog- Brannelly says, “Our flights nizes and auto-matches them to may possiblybring in the best their own favorite content. advertising revenues worldwidebe- “If you choose Chinese dubbing cause over half a million high-end the first time, then the next time customers choose our first class you’re selecting movies, the system and business class every month. will automatically pick Chinese For this reason, luxury brands dubbing for you. The system is built may see our airline as the perfect to select options that we believe you choice for marketing. We have the will prefer. This is part of what we option of selling more advertis- call personalized service.” ing space, but we choose not to. Currently, there are at most two Passenger Loyalty is or three advertisements before a film starts, and the passengers Priceless can choose to skip them. We do In-Flight Entertainment so because we must consider the System Builds the Brand passengers’ flight experience at all times, and because our mission Brannelly reveals that there are is to earn their loyalty, which is three primary systems of ice.The priceless.” first one, mainly serving regional “It demonstrates our brand routes (not on Chinese routes), is positioning. The Emirates brand used on about 20 aircrafts received itself is a valuable product. Every before 2007. It contains about brand has its own unique posi- 2,000 entertainment channels, tioning. Therefore, we can’t say including 600 movies. The major the input of a certain service or differences with the other two utility would bring about returns. lie in screen size, touch screen Any return shall be the result sensitivity, the remote control, of a brand’s overall positioning and the media servers’ size. In and product mix. The airline 2020, the in-flight entertainment business is vulnerable to market system will witness a “remarkable fluctuations, such as econom- improvement that is worth looking ic crises, rising oil prices, and forward to.” epidemic outbreaks. That’s why all However, upgrading the in-flight airlines must be resilient enough entertainment system has huge to respond to any such market costs, with a price of about half challenges in a better and more a milliondollarsforeach aircraft. flexible manner. Only truly power- And this may not include all costs ful products can help enterprises suchas taking the aircraft out of weather the storms of challenges.”

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Text Cao Shenshen

ver since I became young as possible,otherwise, you Sports School at age 10, and once a singer in my early won’t enjoy the utmost happi- studied alongside Jet Li under the “ childhood, I have ness.” Perhaps no one understands same master. When he was 13, he experienced a lot in this better than Cai Guoqing, was admitted to the Junior Class of my life.E When I look back on my who made his debut at the age of the Acting Department at the Central entire career, I have no regrets.”It 7, released an album when he was Academy of Drama. While his peers was on the coldest winter day of 10, and performed with prominent were playing in the hutongs, Cai had 2018 in Beijing, at a coffee house Chinese artists in the Great Hall already entered into the spotlight. on the East Fourth Ring Road, of the People at age 11. When discussing his past, Cai that I met Cai Guoqing – known Cai Guoqing was born in the Guoqing believes all that really as the Evergreen Voice of China late 1960s to a family of artists in matters is his unwavering efforts due to his enduring popularity. Beijing.His father was among the and tenacity. “I thought I could Bright, laid-back, confident and most prominent Chinese opera make it. If I decided to do some- humorous, this age-defying artist actors. “When I was a child, I lived thing, I did it well.” reminded me of the young singer at in the company housing provided by It could be said that Cai was the Spring Festival Gala who sang the National Ballet of China. Every born with a silver spoon in his “Three Hundred and Sixty-Five day, I would hear melodious songs mouth. But in fact, his rise to Blessings” and “Go Home”, which and the sounds of instruments.” stardom was not smooth sailing. both became big hits at the time. Underhis father’s teachings, Cai During the Cultural Revolution, started singing from an early age his parents were sent to the May A Brilliant Childhood and and won The Children’s Music Seventh Cadre School, and he lived Championship in Beijing. To strength- there for a year. Every day, instead Youth en his physique, he began to practice of going to school, Cai had to labor You’d better get famous as martial arts at the Beijing Shichahai in the fields with his parents. About

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this experience, Cai has never Dad, the brother who performed fans back then. expressed any bitterness. Instead, hip-hop on the program Day Day The Spring Festival Gala waskey he regards it as good fortune. Up, the gang boss in the movie The to unlocking Cai’s artistic career. One, and the Talk-King in Roast! When it comes to the Spring Marathon Runner on an In 1986, at the age of 18, Cai Festival Gala, I believe no other officially began his singing career. artist compares to Cai Guoqing. Artistic Path At the CCTV Young Singers To this day, Cai has participat- Remember to remain modest, Grand Prix in 1990, he won the ed in a total of 21 galas. From even at the peak. When my popu- silver prize for pop singers with a the first five consecutive years of larity began to wane, I never song called “Bridges in Beijing” solo performances, to duet, trio, looked down on myself and I and became a household name. In and quartet performances, to the always believed that it was just 1991, Cai Guoqing made his debut “Unforgettable Tonight” in 2014, a phase in my life. I do not agree at the CCTV Spring Festival Gala Cai Guoqing thought he had done with the idea that life has downs, and sang the still famous “Three it all. But he did not expect that he and I never allowed myself to think Hundred and Sixty-Five Blessings”. would return to the stage in 2016, that way.” It is precisely thanks to When he released a new album and performing the opening song and this resilient temperament and the held a signing event at the Beijing dance with Yan Ni and Sha Yi. wisdom of taking the rough with Foreign Languages Bookstore in I am not a 100-meter sprinter, the smooth that generations of Wangfujing Street, over 5,000 fans I am a marathon runner. On my audiences saw Cai as an ever-vig- came from all over the country. artistic path, I need stamina and orous singer on stage, a father who Their enthusiasm is comparable to endurance.” Over his career, Cai participated with his son in the that of today’s fans. Actually, people Guoqing has hoped to explore new reality show Where Are We Going, who are parents today used to be his areas and climb new heights.

Regarding the Civil Aviation Sector

In 1984, I flew from Beijing to Guiyang for the first Chinese culture time. Back then, only those with a letter of introduction instantly on the plane. could buy a ticket at the Xidan Civil Aviation Building. Perhaps, food and beverages could There are no words to express how excited I was be provided with more exquisiteness and distinc- when I first arrived at Terminal 1 of the Beijing Capital tion. Among the various airlines I have flown on, International Airport in 1984. I was sitting on the best only Hainan Airlines, I feel, meets the standards of a plane of the time, the Soviet-made Tupolev Tu-154. I quality meal. remember flying from Beijing to Guiyang in about 2 I have also taken flights on many other international hours and 40 minutes. Will you believe it? I didn’t blink airlines. For example, when I was on a JAL flight, I had once for the whole flight as I looked out the window. a meal of soba noodles served on a plate of woven Our generation was fully aware of the tremendous fine bamboo strips, which looked rather unique. We changes happening at that time. Since my first flight need to focus on detailsto try and reflect the beauty of and my first performance abroad in 1989, I have now Chinese culture in a plate, a dish, or a cup. traveled to more than 50 countries and regions in the The second point concerns the captain’s voice. Who world on planes operated by Chinese airlines. is the airplane’s master? When you are on a foreign I am a Lifetime Platinum member of Air China. Since flight, you can feel the positive energy when you hear my first flight in 1984, I have discovered that Chinese those humorous little dialogues between captain and airlines have the most advanced and safest airplanes passengers. For example, if you are flying to the United but sadly provide meals that are far from satisfactory. States the captain will talk about the weather along the In-flight meals should actually represent China’s way, asking passengers to stay calm when encountering image and food culture to wow passengers. When turbulence. Some of our captains do indeed talk on the foreign travelers fly to China, they may have their first plane. But the lack of power in their voice undermines Chinese meal on the plane. If we pay more attention their ability to reassure their passengers. Therefore, I to in-flight meal quality and its reflection on China’s hope that our captains will learn to express themselves image, this meal might help foreign passengers grasp with more confidence, charisma, and power.

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Quick Quiz

Q: Which airline’s uniform do you like remain the same, but the the most? way one expresses them Cai Guoqing: Hainan Airlines and should be open to change. Some China Eastern Airlines. Air China’s actors have asked me privately: “How uniforms actually have tremendous did you do it? We are too shy to make advantages. In the beginning, they a change, even if we wanted to.” I told even invited Pierre Cardin to do them you must let go of that burden. the design. Q: I heard that you once had the Q: How do you kill time during long- opportunity to play Cheng Dieyi in haul flights? Farewell My Concubine. Why did Cai Guoqing: I like reading. I would you refuse? expect more quality magazines on the Cai Guoqing: I was worried at plane, especially ones like the CAAC that time. Facing tremendous In-Flight Magazine. During my flight, social pressure, I lacked courage I prefer to review the magazines first, back then. But when I think about and if I’m on a long flight, I might also it now, I feel that there is actually watch a nice movie. nothing to worry about. Over the course of my 30-years- Q: Window or aisle? inging career, there was a time Cai Guoqing: I prefer sitting next to when I was considered a contro- the window because I can enjoy the versial singer. When I was at the scenery without worrying about being Capital Gymnasium in 1986, no recognized by fans. man had worn a red suit on that stage before. But I did. As a Q: What is the most unbearable thing result, I received both applause during flight? and curses. Cai Guoqing: When the temperature in Although I may strike people the cabin is too high. as a laid-back gentleman, I am Lifestyle strong-willed. Even Q: Time, fare or service, which do you in times of prioritize when booking a flight? controversy, Cai Guoqing: Time. I remained true to Q: Which was your longest flight? myself. I told Cai Guoqing: From Beijing to Buenos myself that Aires. It took me a day and a half, plus I was doing transit time. the right thing. Q: What are your hobbies? Cai Guoqing: I like collecting. I have written a book about Chinese porcelain entitled: Idyllic Land for Urban Escape / 68 Prancing Dragon. I don’t think any other country compares to Taste Is All That Matters / 74 China in terms of turning mud Chic / 80 into gold. Books & Films / 82 Q: In the past few years, you have made career breakthroughs such as An Interior Designer’s Cozy Cottage / 84 participating in variety shows and acting as a villain. Are you readjust- Start Your Positive Journey at Canopy by ing your position? Hilton Chengdu City Centre / 87 Cai Guoqing: Never judge a book by its cover. One’s principles may Catching a Plane in a Relaxing and Pleasant Way / 88

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The PuLi Exterior Shot

n the well-known essay Peach-Blossom Spring, the Idyllic Land for famous writer of the Eastern I Jin Dynasty (317-420) Tao Yuanming, one of the most prom- inent Chinese poets, describes the chance discovery of an ethereal utopia where the people lead an ideal existence in harmony with nature. It’s hard, but not impossible, to discover a land of “peach Classroom of The PuLi UrbanText Fannie Escape blossoms” in a metropolis.

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Escapes are often associated with at the landscape design around the faraway beaches and countryside hotel, a distinctive Chinese flavor, cabins, but big cities present yet cosmopolitan in outlook, relax-and-recharge opportunities can be sensed all around you. of their own. References and connections to the local Chinese culture come mostly AN OASIS WITHIN THE through the materials used, giving METROPOLIS AMBIANCE rise to a synthesis of old and new. Between the famous Nanjing Shanghai bricks, more common- West Road and Yan’an Road, at ly used for exterior facades of the very heart of Shanghai’s busi- buildings, allow the hotel to be ness, shopping, sightseeing, and creative in architectural aesthetics entertainment district, stands The and function, through a juxtaposi- PuLi, Shanghai’s first urban resort tion of old world elements and new hotel. Rows of polite bamboos world technology. The tile flooring lead to the entrance to the lobby, of the hotel lobby was specially where the giant doors open torev- created by the same manufacturers eal wonders and mysteries. who worked on the Forbidden City. Looking at the stunning inte- The designers put the material Lobby of The PuLi riors of the hotel’s public areas, to impressive use in the lobby, guestrooms, and garden and even turning a traditional construction

Hotel Exterior of The PuXuan

material rarely used today into a A unique range of lighting devic- experience in this oasis within the timeless showpiece. Dragon-scaled es and decorative fixtures were metropolis, heightening discovery screens and cast bronze basins designed in close alignment with and bringing pleasure to the senses, in every room are other nuanc- the interior architecture. Many of as well asan understated product of es which weave a meaningful these custom designed lights draw grandeur, luxury, and elegance. common thread between East and inspiration from traditional Chinese West, old and new. forms but were given a modern, A GEM IN THE VERY NERVE The dominant role played by unexpected twist by the designers. CENTER light is a consistent theme applied Staying true to the hotel’s With its formal debut on to every aspect of The PuLi. To commitment to creating hand- February 1, The PuXuan Hotel reference nature and the resort life- crafted luxury experiences with and Spa reveals what a true oasis style in the hotel’s urban context, cultural context and authenticity, in the heart of the city ought to be. the award-winning Australian The PuLi offers guests an oasis Nestled amidst one of the lighting design firm The Flaming within the metropolis ambiance. world’s most significant historical Beacon created a series of static Imbued with contemporary areas — Beijing’s Forbidden City and animated projections to help elements and accents of tradition- and Wangfujing — The PuXuan is suspend disbelief and bring out the al Asian charm, the result is a uniquely poised as a new, modern- Library of The PuLi place’s magical aura. distinctively unique, new spatial ist state-of-the-art masterpiece.

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Kit Open chen of The Pu Xu The neighborhood’s ancestral the hotel completes the Guardian an the historical and cultural heritage C lu heritage has been cleverly enriched Art Center in an iconic b of the ancient capital city. by a gem of modernity, paying state-of-the-art building. Strolling around the lobby respectful, yet contemporary In collaboration with offers a sense of Beijing’s court- homage to one of the capital’s Shanghai-based design yard houses, with the open patio most important and distinct firm MQ-studio, a huge eye-opener. Though it may quarters. the hotel’s interiors be a world of ice and snow outside Watching from a distance, the integrate a luxuri- in the cold winter, it provides Guardian Art Center, where the ous and understated a chance to run into a verdant hotel sits, is a work of art in itself. metaphorical bamboo grove and the murmurs of The ringlike glass and brick wall design throughout running water. gives a sense of suspension, and a modern space, The lobby’s lighting design- grey basalt stones are nested and uniquely craft- dovetails with the natural light. overlaid to form the base, endow- ed with local and As the sun goes down, Jingshan ing the building’s heavy texture cultural references. and echoing the neighboring tradi- The PuXuan’s tional folk residences. design does not celebrate Designed by the internationally an aesthetic, but the city acclaimed German architect Ole out of which it was born. A Scheeren (formerly with OMA), visit there is akin to exploring

Fu Chun Ju, the Chinese Restaurant of The Puxuan

Park afterglow is visible through and stone. the window, like a fine landscape You may come across awe-in- painting. spiring views over the Forbidden The Cantonese restaurant Fu City or one of Beijing’s oldest Chun Ju not only offers a journey neighborhoods below. Featuring into an extraordinary culinary handcrafted and artisanal furni- world but also into architectur- ture by Hermès-owned Chinese al beauty with classic Chinese lifestyle brand SHANG XIA, old-world charm. Designed as the guest rooms use the finest a contemporary tribute to the materials to create a staycation capital’s traditional Hutong experience unparalleled in the home, the thoughtfully conceived capital today. variety of non-intrusive open and “We are in such a unique and private spaces, with their clean historical location that allows us and simple lines features Beijing’s to provide visitors a one-of-a-kind Guest Area at UR Spa of The PuXuan famed hues with an aesthetic of experience,” says Mark Wouters, amber glass, delicate timbers, General Manager of The PuXuan.

72 73 Lifestyle | Bite

hen flying on an airplane, one seems to have nothing in particular to do except eat, sleep, read, watch movies and go to Wthe bathroom. Don’t assume that you have to choose between chicken rice and beef noodles I s for your in-flight meal. Fresh ingredients, high-class delicacies, airline chefs and elegant sommeliers are all Taste there to add more pleasure to your trip. Let’s begin with an appetizer and indulge in the in-flight cuisine of airlines from all over the world. Yes, your adven- All That ture starts with delicacies and fine wine. Finnair Almost everyone loves the creations of Michelin-starred chefs, and most people dislike airline food. So what would happen Matters if Michelin-starred chefs personally designed 1the in-flight menu? Would you love it? “For a chef, Text Stella it is very difficult to make full use of their imagina- tion in designing an in-flight meal. I think it’s vital to ensure the taste of the food through a reliable production process. This is an interesting challenge, but in the end, flavor will have the final say.” Tommy Myllymäki– a celebrity chef from Sweden – is one hundred percent a connoisseur of food and wine. Tommy had a most extraordinary experience design- ing the Business Class menu for long-haul flights departing from Helsinki on Finnair in 2018. When unbridled imagination is restricted by the cooking environment up in the sky, what becomes the most important factor? In Tommy’s opinion, the first thing to consider is whether it is possible and reason- able to heat the food to ensure a better meal for passengers. The taste and quality of the food come second. The menu he designed for Finnair is characterized by the Nordic style: the use of seasonal vegetables. The menu changes four times a year, and in 2019 Tommy will add Salmon Tartare Salad– his signature dish– to the new menu.

A Preference for Seasonal Food Ingredients For Tommy Myllymäki, it is important with every ingredient to respect the season. That’s why he likes to introduce more fresh vegetables and rich tastes onto the airplane. Tommy’s winter dishes for Finnair included Nordic fresh vegetable and meat dishes such as Jerusalem artichokes with mushrooms and pears, as well as braised beef with celery and kale. In the summer, his menu focuses on fresh season- alvegetables, reminding passengers of the cool summer in Nordic countries. In autumn, the 2018 in-flight meals included Jerusalem artichokes emulsion with crisps, celeriac with cheese, mushroom soup with smoked reindeer, baked cod with crayfish sauce, and much more seasonal vegetables.

74 Photo by Air France Lifestyle | Bite

Singapore Emirates arrive at their destinations, they have already had an Airlines The chefs at experience of the local Confucius said, “a Emirates spend a cuisine. Some of the most man must not eat that lot of time select- remarkable dishes offered by 2which is not in season.” Inspired by 4ing high-quality ingredients Emirates include the Emirati the ancient Chinese culinary tradi- from all over the world to machbous, an Arabic mezze tion, Singapore Airlines began in create delicious meals and, selection and the popular 2015 to provide Chinese meals enti- more importantly, to satisfy sticky date pudding. tled “Delicacies in Season”. In July the diverse tastes and pref- The Emirates Flight Catering 2018, the company introduced an erences of their passengers. is located in Dubai, where all upgraded version, bearing the name Emirates always insist on a catering managers are gathered “Delicacies with Perfect Taste.” perfect balance between taste to work with chefs from many This new menu was the result of the and health. Their flights are different countries to create integration of the seasonal growing often called “restaurants in flavors that satisfy the tastes cycle of carefully selected traditional the air.” Emirates provide of passengers from around the ingredients and traditional Chinese every passenger with local world. Emirates has five “kitch- cooking techniques. Many efforts specialties and drinks made ens in the air” worldwide, one went into creating a uniquely tradi- from local ingredients. of which is located in the Asia- tional Chinese in-flight meal. Therefore, before passengers Pacific Region. Created by Zhu Jun – a renowned international chef and member of the International Culinary Panel of International Culinary Panel Chinese Flavor Singapore Airlines – “Delicacies with In September 1998, Singapore Airlines set up the “International Creating a bond between in-flight meals and passengers Culinary Panel,” whose members are mostly chefs at restaurants boasting two or has always been the pursuit of Emirates catering. They aim Perfect Taste” was built off merg- three Michelin stars. Working closely with the Singapore Airlines chefs, this panel is ing traditional cooking techniques to share interesting stories with their passengers. Therefore, dedicated to creating exquisite dishes for in-flight meals. On average, the International when a passenger opens an in-flight menu, the first thing with fresh seasonal ingredients in Culinary Panel creates 50 new in-flight meals for Singapore Airlines every year. If you fly he or she will see is a comment from the chef, introducing a order to bring healthy delicacies to with Singapore Airlines, a customizable menu is available on the official website before special dish, from its origin to its specific cooking method. passengers, all for an enjoyable and you fly. You can choose from classic Singaporean chicken rice, creamy lobster, laksa with First Class passengers from Beijing to Dubai can also enjoy chicken and prawns, Indian food, Chinese cuisine, among others. high-quality flight experience. Chinese dishes, including spiced beef, steamed chicken with chili sauce, cold jellyfish salad, sweet and sour lotus root, tofu with century eggs and pan-fried pork buns.

Delta Air Lines to make customized, reinvented menus If you travel on Delta Air for Chinese passengers.” Lines from the United States It is a tradition for Delta Air Lines to China, your appetite will to cooperate with renowned chefs to 3kick into gear when you see a menu like provide localized and seasonal in-flight this: chicken with mushrooms, braised meals. Before Mr. Leung, Delta Air Lines spare ribs in brown sauce, and Shanghai cooperated with chefs from the Hotel fried noodles with mushrooms. If you Union Square Group, which belongs to are a Chinese cuisine connoisseur, you Danny Meyer, and James. will be satisfied. Allison Ausband, senior vice-president of Delta Air Lines in charge of in-flight service said: “Dining, no matter where you are, should be an Fusion of Chinese Styles experience that is enjoyed and remem- For flights departing China, chef Jereme Leung, best known for deliciously blending modern Chinese bered. Making sure the experience is as cuisines with classical Chinese provincial food, authentic to local culture as it is delicious has developed menus featuring highlights such is at the core of how we develop our as Shanghai-style steamed sole fish, oven-baked in-flight menus, and why we wanted to sesame dumplings with preserve mustard, dim sum, and Shaanxi biang biang noodles. partner with master chef Jereme Leung,

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Etihad Airways Turkish Airlines If you see flight attendants in white According to many frequent suits in the cabin, don’t mistake them for flyers, the in-flight meals of ordinary flight attendants. These are the Turkish Airlines are more than 5special catering managers and air chefs of 7just meals. This clearly shows Etihad Airways. They all have rich experience working the reputation Turkish Airlines meals have in high-end hotels and restaurants. During the flight, established among passengers. Indeed, the they will introduce the menu to passengers and recom- fine cuisine of Turkish Airlines has won mend a wine from their special selection. The air chefs are there to ensure high-quality food service and see numerous awards, including “Best Airline that passengers have an experience as enjoyable as if in Europe for In-flight Meals”. they were on the ground. They give full play to their Before the plane takes off, Turkish expertise to create authentic customized cuisine for Airlines offers a “welcome drink,” estab- their diners 35,000 feet in the air. lishing a pleasant start to your journey. For Special Meals Special meals are not limited to children, babies, and main meals, passengers have the opportuni- vegetarians. Turkish Airlines provide 20 different special ty to taste delicacies from around the world, Chefs in the Air meals to satisfy almost any dietary requirement or habit as well as unique Turkish specialties such as In December 2011, Etihad Airways proposed personal chef services in the that their passengers might have. Turkish Airlines offers air for First Class passengers. Today, every passenger on flights equipped five different kinds of vegetarian options, including the shish kebab, karnıyarık, mantı, and imam with a First Class cabin can enjoy top-quality dishes freshly prepared by Asian vegetarian meal, the strict vegan meal, the Jain- bayıldı. Even if you have never been to chefs in the air. Every chef has at least 6 years of working experience in a Vegetarian Hindu meal, the lacto-ovo vegetarian meal, Turkey, you will still feel the romance of the five-star hotel or a Michelin-starred restaurant. and the vegetarian oriental meal. country in the air.

Air New Zealand Air France The Road to Fine Wine Flying with Air France is also a great chance to explore Peter Gordon is a well-known France is one of the or revisit French wines. After boarding, your tour chef in New Zealand. As the top three culinary of French cuisine starts with a glass of champagne. owner of Sugar Club, a famous cultures with a long Later on, you can sample culinary delicacies carefully restaurant in Sky Tower (an Auckland land- history of fine cuisine. The in-flight prepared for you by star chefs such as Régis Marcon, 6 8 Michel Roth, Joël Robuchon, and Guy Martin. These mark), he brings top-quality cuisine 30,000 meals that Air France offers are chefs will guide you through a variety of savory treats feet in the air. This widely renowned every bit as excellent as the famed and sweet delicacies including aperitifs, starters, chef has been cooperating with Air New French cuisine. Every year, Air hot dishes, cheeses, pastries, sorbets, fruits, and so Zealand for almost 20 years. On the menus France invests over 560 million on… Everything that might be needed to satiate your appetite for great food. that Gordon designs, consideration is given euros in its on-board catering to to the culinary culture of both departure better serve passengers. Chefs from and destination cities of the flight. At the Michelin-starred restaurants are same time, he also takes into account the hired to prepare menus for flights influence of environmental factors on taste, departing from Paris. Traditional such as the humidity of the cabin. This French cuisine is complemented by way, Gordon creates feasts for passengers new and innovative dishes, ranging with fresh ingredients and creative cooking from classics such as foie gras and techniques. vintage Bordeaux to innovative ones The catering team at Air New Zealand including prawn sushi, angler fish also goes to every airport and invites local skewers and spicy sausages. employees to sample their dishes to collect On flights from Shanghai to information on local tastes, eating habits, Paris, the famous Michelin-starred and so on. The purpose of these visits is head chef at Park Hyatt Paris- to design different menus catering to vari- Vendôme brings two signature ous markets. Thus, on an evening flight From Farm to Cabin dishes: chicken supreme stuffed Air New Zealand promotes the concept “from farm to cabin” to ensure fresh ingre- to Shanghai, you can have goji berry and dients on the aircraft. The design of their in-flight menus represents the hard work with walnut butter and smoked chicken soup and Hong Kong dim sum.On a of some of the world’s most outstanding chefs. Since fire and frying pans are strictly paprika, poulette sauce, pak choy flight to Japan, however, Air New Zealand prohibited in the air, the menu designed by Peter Gordon and Michael Meredith and chestnuts, and roasted scallops, embellishes the dishes with the maple leaves (another consulting chef) is prepared by the catering centers at local airports. The semi- coffee butter and cider vinegar, with cooked food is then sent onto the plane for further heating by flight attendants. of the season. mashed celery and mushrooms.

78 79 Lifestyle | Chic CPB BENEFIT Highlight High Brow Color Glow

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From award-winning investiga- found. Almost four decades later, Happy Death Day 2U Ruben Brandt, Collector tive journalist Kyle Swenson, Good Vernon recanted his testimony, Having survived the farcical but utterly life-threaten- A psychotherapist suffers violent night- Kids, Bad City is the true story and Wiley, Kwame, and Rickey ing events in Happy Death Day (2017), the feisty sorority mares inspired by legendary works of art. of the longest wrongful imprison- were released. But while their girl Tree Gelbman finds Four of his ment in the United States to end in exoneration may have ended one of herself in the same college patients, exoneration, and a critical social American history’s most disgrace- dorm, thankful to be alive. expert and political history of Cleveland, ful miscarriages of justice, the However, this time, it’s thieves, the city that convicted Wiley corruption and decay of the city Carter’s roommate, Ryan, offer to Bridgeman, Kwame Ajamu, and responsible for their imprisonment who claims that he is reliv- steal the Rickey Jackson. remain on trial. ing the same paradoxical works, In the early 1970s, these three Interweaving the dramatic day over and over again, since he African-American men were details of the case with Cleveland’s as a mysterious paranoid believes accused and convicted of the brutal history — one that, to this day, is killer in a single-toothed that once robbery and murder of a man fraught with systemic discrimina- baby-faced mask with he owns outside of a convenience store in tion and racial tension — Swenson a big kitchen knife has them, the Cleveland, Ohio. The prosecution’s reveals how this outrage occurred made a habit of murdering nightmares case, which resulted in a combined and why. Good Kids, Bad City is a him. Under those circum- will disap- 106 years in prison for the three work of astonishing empathy and stances, a valiant but vain pear. He men, rested on the more-than-ques- insight: an immersive exploration attempt to face the chal- becomes Good Kids, Bad City tionable testimony of a pre-teen, of race in America, the struggling lenge, once more, will send a wanted by Kyle Swenson Ed Vernon. Midwest, and how lost lives can be Tree back to square one, trapped in an all too familiar and criminal The actual murderer was never recovered. blood-drenched time loop. How many deaths separate Tree know as “The Collector”. Who will dare to from a truly happy birthday? catch him and his gang?

Green Book The Night Tiger Sounds Like Titanic In 1962, Tony “Tony Lip” Vallelonga, a tough bouncer, is look- by Yangsze Choo by Jessica Chiccehitto Hindman ing for work while his nightclub is closed for renovations. The most promising offer turns out to be a position as the driver for From New When aspir- the African-American classical pianist Don Shirley for a concert York Times best- ing violinist Jessica tour into the Deep South states. Although hardly enthused at work- selling author Chiccehitto Hindman ing for a black man, Tony accepts the job and they begin their trek Yangsze Choo, lands a job with a armed with The Negro Motorist Green Book, a guide for safe travel The Night Tiger professional ensem- through America’s racial segregation. is an utterly trans- ble in New York City, The snobbishly erudite pianist and the crudely practical bouncer porting novel set she imagines she has can barely get along, with clashing attitudes toward life and ideals. in 1930s colonial achieved her life- However, as the disparate pair witness and endure America’s appall- Malaysia. Quick- long dream. But the ing injustices on the road, they find a newfound respect for each witted, ambitious ensemble proves to other’s talents and heart to face them together. In doing so, they Ji Lin is stuck be a sham. When the would nurture a friendship and understanding that would change as an appren- group “performs,” the both their lives. tice dressmaker, microphones are never Inspired by a true story and the lifelong friendship that ensued, moonlighting on. Instead, the music we discover both men as they get to know each other. Tony Lip is as a dancehall blares from a CD. The a streetwise man who is comfortable with his lot in life, while Dr. girl to help pay mastermind behind Shirley plays his role in society while quietly stewing internally. He off her moth- this scheme is a pecu- flashes his toothy grin to disarm the adoring white audiences, but er’s Mahjong debts. But when one of her dance liar and mysterious figure known as The Composer, then sucks down his Cutty Sark in the evening, as he is good enough partners accidentally leaves behind a gruesome who is gaslighting his audiences with music that to perform for them, but not good enough to dine with them (or souvenir, Ji Lin plunges into a dark adventure: sounds suspiciously like the Titanic movie soundtrack. even use their restroom). There are times the racism gets violent and a mirror world of secrets and superstitions. On tour with this chaotic ensemble, Hindman spirals that’s where Tony Lip comes in. The novel pulls us into a world of servants and into crises of identity and disillusionment as she Don helps Tony write romantic and intimate letters to his wife Dolores, while Tony teaches Don about KFC masters, age-old superstition and modern ideal- “plays” for audiences genuinely moved by the perfor- and Little Richard. It’s an awkward buddy film that in real life developed into a decades-long friendship – one ism, sibling rivalry and, forbidden love. mance, unable to differentiate real from fake. that only ended when both died in 2013.

82 83 Lifestyle | Home An Interior Designer’s Cozy Cottage Text Patsy Yang

ritish interior designer New York), so the result is a Katharine Pooley blend of English cottage, true purchased a charming to its roots, mixed with a cool cottage in Croyde, the nautical feel, with elements of the B Hamptons’ style,” she said. The most coveted part of Devon, aftershe fell in love with the property features an open-plan- area’s laid-back vibe during a living-dining-kitchen area, a family holiday. traditionally styled study, four The building, situated a stone’s bedrooms, including a master throw away from the beach, was bedroom with sumptuous fabrics initially split into two properties. and a children’s bedroom. To It was returned to its original maximize the property’s poten- state and extended to give the tial, the entire roof was replaced 19th-century construction a new to improve ceiling heights on all lease of life. floors, with underfloor heating “The property had good propor- installed to ensure comfort during tions, a welcoming, cozy feel, but the winter months. The main it was very tired and in need of living room has a feature fireplace renovation. It is a 10-minute walk with a wood burner. from the most beautiful beach, “We have a large seating area and the village is quaint with that is centered around the fire. lots of thatched cottages along a We wanted to be able to seat 12 stream. It also has several pubs comfortably. The living room now and independent coffee shops,” opens up to the dining room and Pooley said. kitchen so it really is the heart of To maximize the property’s the home,” Pooley said. potential and create a beautiful The dining room has a family home, able toaccommoda- banquette seat. It also has hidden teup to 12 guests, Pooley gutted it, storage and built-in niches to added an extra floorand reconfig- create space and displays in clever ured the inside, opening it up and ways. The dining table has a stone creating en-suite bathrooms. It has insert to prevent hot dishes from a great flow now and improved damaging the limed oak timber. ceiling heights. “The light over the table is one “I was inspired by homes in of my favorite pieces.It’s called the Hamptons (Long Island, Shoal by Scabetti and it’s made up

84 85 Lifestyle | Home Lifestyle | Report

of English fine bone china fish,” contemporary aesthetics, mixing Pooley said. simple lines with soft touches. Striking features also include the “I had a photographer take kitchen by Humphrey Munson, photos of the nearby beach in the artwork, most of which was different weather conditions, and specially commissioned, and those are framed in the entrance bespoke upholstery throughout. hall.I also commissioned a The master bedroom has been number of nautical scene canvases designed to be a calm, relaxing with colors that compliment the space. It has layers of soft, natural rooms,” she said. but luxurious textures. Pooley has a beautiful whale “I added tongue and groove sculpture which she bought in Sag paneling.Most of the furniture is Harbour, in the Hamptons. Family bespoke or from antique fairs but photos are also showcased. the chest of drawers is from Pottery “To achieve a warm atmosphere The dining room can Barn.Only the handles have been at home, soft textures, comfort- entertain up to 12 changed, and it fits in perfectly,” able furniture, underfloor heating, guests has a beautiful light, made up of she said. and warm white lighting are English fine bone Start Your Positive Journey at In true Pooley style, home acces- necessary,” Polley added. china, hanging over sories and furniture were sourced “With our family based in the table. on her trips abroad. London, we come to enjoy this Canopy by Hilton Chengdu City Centre Text Fannie “There are a few antique fairs house every month. W just love I visit. If I find the right piece, a it, and it is proper family time whole room can develop from without distraction. Although I do that. I do love antique pieces as have a study here, I try not to sit ocated next to Tianfu Square, the commercial and HIGHLIGHTS they have a story and bring charm and work when we are here, so it’s historical heart of Chengdu, Canopy by Hilton Chengdu to a space. I did also have a lot been turned into a multifunction City Centre is the first Canopy by Hilton hotel in the of the furniture pieces made so room with a TV and a library.” Asia Pacific Region which was recently opened on Transfer Lounge L The hotel also boasts a they are exactly what I had in January 18. Transfer Lounge, the first- mind,” she said. “There are also “At Canopy, we’ve got you covered.” The hotel is located of-its-kind in China, where some pieces that are off the shelf. from 23 to 32 floors in the West Tower of Leading Center, guests with early arrivals But even those,we do tend to at No. 5 Xiyu Street, just 12 miles from Chengdu Shuangliu or late departures can use comfortable facilities customize in some way, like reup- International Airport, and is in the most popular dining and including luggage lockers, holstering, painting or changing nightlife corridor of Chengdu, allowing guests to explore a private changing room the handles.” Sichuan opera houses, night markets and other exciting sights with shower. Each room has its own color with ease. The hotel is also within walking distance to some palette but they all blend together of the city’s finest cultural sites, including Kuanzhai Lane, nicely. The base is of taupes and Chengdu Museum, People’s Park, the Qingyang Taoist Temple, creams with accents in blue, grey, and Wenshu Monastery, the largest monastery in Chengdu. teal, blush and terracotta. The From digital check-in to room amenities, the 150 Just- Eat, Drink, Smile The east-meets-west concept is courtyard furniture uses comple- Right rooms ranging from 50 to 100 square meters have also brought to life through the mentary colors of blue and orange, been designed for ease and comfort. The canopy over the hotel’s modern dining options. which helps bring the space alive. bed creates an ideal sleeping environment along with each Guests can start the day with Artisanal Breakfast made with “The garden is a highlight room’s Serta mattress, which is complemented with a fresh, local ingredients in TC of this property as it has had a ZoneActive™ 5-Zone Foam Topper for the right amount Café or have a breakfast bag dramatic makeover. It was much of support and Serta Cool Balance® Technology for optimal delivered to their door. TC Café offers dishes including smaller before and very unloved. temperature control. Guests can also pamper themselves homemade local noodles, a It is now such an inviting, tranquil with a rain shower, Acca Kappa or Tara Smith bath ameni- selection of light bites and Chengdu’s renowned Long Chaoshou wonton space where we often have dinner ties and cozy bathrobes. Other room amenities include soup. In the evening, TC Café offers a during the long summer evenings. Canopy’s signature “uncloseted” closet, a 55-inch TV, a sharing dinner, where guests can enjoy We have a pizza oven, which is Nespresso® machine, generous workspace, and compli- both local and international small plates for sharing. Featuring skyline view, heaven,” Pooley said. mentary standard Wi-Fi. Canopy Lounge serves light bites, and The secret to creating a welcom- Canopy by Hilton Chengdu City Centre welcomes guests offer complimentary Evening Tasting ing home is to strike a fine balance with a positive stay and provides a truly immersive and of signature cocktails, wines, local craft beers, and teas every evening from 6 by combining tradition with locally-inspired experience. p.m. to 7 p.m.

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Catching a Plane in a Relaxing and

PleasantText Stella Way

lthough the small The rooms’ concept is modern HIGHLIGHTS fishing village of and rooted in simplicity. I was Shenzhen has become impressed by the spacious bath- Ain the span of a few room with its large bathtub and decades a modern city, it has shower and toilet amenities. Flying nonetheless retained its centu- Catering to diverse needs, Hyatt ries-old Cantonese culture. Regency Shenzhen Airport offers Hyatt Regency Shenzhen a range of dining options through Airport, the brand’s first its four distinctive restaurants and airport hotel in Greater China, bars. The café integrates elements has recently opened, and I of Shenzhen’s diverse culture made a stop there during my with international delights. In the latest business trip transit at outdoor garden, you can watch Shenzhen Airport. planes taking off and landing Regency Club Lounge I did not expect the hotel while tasting delicious food. The Located on the 11th floor, the lounge is to only be separated from the Lounge is a stylish destination for reserved for the distinguished guests airport by a long corridor. I a light meal or afternoon tea or staying on the executive floor. The club was amazed that it took less cocktails before and after a flight, lounge is the only one in China from than a 10-minute walk before as well as a venue featuring busi- where you can witness aircraft taking I was able to check in. The ness center services. off and landing. lobby’s design borrows from the In this fast-paced city and Lobby Lounge traditional Lingnan culture of fast-paced era, slow down, enjoy Feast on a Plane / 90 Shenzhen Bao’an. It is themed a break from a busy life in Hyatt The stylish Lobby Lounge is where world travelers connect. Guests can around a “mirage”, with a Regency Shenzhen Airport, Frictionless Parking Payment, Smarter Services / 92 enjoy a light meal and refreshments modern design and new materi- make it relaxing and pleasant before or after a flight, or gather with Ask the Captain / 94 als to evoke a scene of Guangfu to “catch a plane”, discover a friends and colleagues for an afternoon residents on the clouds. brand-new traveling habit. tea or cocktails. News / 96

88 Flying

venture, Beijing Air Catering Co., reflects how backward China’s air catering industry was and how rapidly it caught up toglobal standards over the 40 years since China’s reform and opening-up. The aviation food company, with about 3,000 employees and annual revenues of over 1.1 billion yuan ($140 million), now provides On A Plane food for 40 domestic and foreign airlines operating at Beijing Capital Text Tu Lei International Airport. Almost 40 Feast million passengers taste the food they produce each year, according to a statement Beijing Air Catering sent to the Sky Times. according to a report from Xinhua At present, China has more News Agency. than 130 air food companies, as PIONEER well as thousands of suppliers, In December 1978, China decid- NEW ERA providing air meals for 135 foreign ed to launch its significant reform After years of development and airlines and more than 40 domestic and opening-up policy. Firms from experience, Beijing Air Catering airlines, according to the statement. Japan and Switzerland were the Co. is now seeking a leading Moreover, although initially first to see the business oppor- position in the Asian and global developed following the interna- tunities in China’ aviation food aviation food market. tional style, China’s aviation food industry. However, their stringent The company’s turnover had industry has gradually formed its requirements forced China to increased more than 26 fold by own characteristics, featuring a refuse their cooperation offer. the end of 1987 and could provide varied Chinese cuisine catering to It was then that Hong Kong more than 600 types of meals, with different tastes. entrepreneur James Tak Wu and 45 percent being western cuisine. Echoing the development of his daughter Annie Wu Suk Ching The company has also remained China’s aviation food industry, grasped the opportunity and profitable since its establishment Chinese people’s demands and devoted themselves to establish- in 1980, according to the overseas understanding of air food has ing the first China-overseas joint edition of the People’s Daily. also changed. Passengers want a venture, said the statement. Facing increased competition “tasty meal” rather than just a In April 1980, the central in the domestic market, as well “full meal.” In-flight meals have government officially approved as the international market, Wu become a competitive issue for the establishment of Beijing Suk Ching told the Global Times Chinese airlines wishing to attract Air Catering Co., with Beijing that she will continue to cooperate new customers. Administration of Civil Aviation of with Air China to improve food On December 23, 2017, China China holding a 51-percent share, quality and “do what needs to be implemented the first regulations while the Hong Kong company done” in the future to become a and rules for the aviation food held the remaining 49 percent. global model for a “standard inter- industry, to better regulate the This also marked the start of the national air catering company.” domestic air catering industry, development of overseas-funded The company’s strong growth thus marking a new era for the enterprises, with Beijing Jianguo also came alongside China’s country’s rising air food cater- Hotel, Schindler, Dynasty Winery booming aviation industry.In ing sector. njoying a “feast” on a specialized technology. than Chinese cuisine and is less and many others following in the 2017, the annual air passenger Jiang Junxian, president of plane is not a big deal for In a bid to ensure safety, food on a technologically demanding. But footsteps of China-overseas joint flow in China reached 549 million, China’s Cuisine Association, noted many Chinese, thanks plane, especially cooked food, must even a staple like bread was once a venture 001. compared with just 3.43 million in that the growth of China’s catering to improving living stan- go through a complicated delivery headache for domestic air catering By the end of 1985, Beijing had 1980. The rapid growth also illus- industry has maintained a reason- E companies 40 years ago. able and consistent growth rate, dards. For air catering companies, process, be transferred in special approved 8,355 overseas-funded trates the huge market demand for however, providing a delicious and carts on planes and be reheated Known as “China-overseas joint enterprises. In the first half of air food, according to data from predicting that the industry’s reve- safe meal high up in the sky is not before it is offered to passengers. venture 001”, the development 2018, about 30,000 such compa- the Civil Aviation Administration nues will exceed 5 trillion yuan in as easy as it looks and requires Western food is easier to prepare of the first China-overseas joint nies were set up across China, of China (CAAC). 2020, CAAC News reported.

90 91 Flying | BCIA

Airport has set up a lane for driv- vehicles to enter. By doing so, the ers who have prepaid, allowing use of parking resources can be Frictionless them to exit without having to balanced. The existing layout of wait in line. parking space on the B1 floor was These services have reduced the improved by setting up fast traffic time spent on paying the parking lanes, hence improving the traffic Parking fee and have brought remark- efficiency. Such is especially the able efficiency to the airport’s case in the two drop-off areas car flow, improving the passen- located near the elevator on the gers’ experience. Today, Beijing north side and the central escala- Payment, Capital International Airport tor and surrounding the central offers 9 ways to pay the parking service area. The optimization fees, including cash, ETC, bank shows great consideration for both card, WeChat Pay (by scanning cars and drivers. Smarter QR code), Alipay (by scanning QR code), automatic payment on MORE EFFORTS, MORE Alipay, automatic payment on CONVENIENCE WeChat, Quick Pass by China On the basis of the existing Services UnionPay and prepayment on parking guidance system, Beijing WeChat or Alipay. It is the Capital Airport has developed Text Li Hongqian airport’s aspiration to diversify the “Capital Airport Traffic and and perfect payment methods Parking” to help business travel- so as to bring passengers a more ers like Huang, who can nowfind 36-year-old Beijing resident forprepayment. First-time users comfortable and convenient park- untimed to timed, in order to building. There is now a special their own vehicles with a special Huang is a business class passen- scan the QR code of the mini-pro- ing service. solve congestion problems during area for online car-hailing on the function in the mini-program. ger who has visited Beijing Capital gram and bindtheir license plate peak periods. At peak times, same floor alongside signs and The mini-program can also International Airport 61 times last to it.After that,they tap ‘my BETTER PLAN, HIGHER EFFI- the average car flow from all the guidance staff whenever and wher- display in real time the number of year, with a flight mileage of about vehicle’ on the upper right corner CIENCY exits of timed car parks has been ever necessary. Adjustments have vacant parking spots as an aid for 100,000 kilometers and a total and enter the page for automatic With the substantial increase in reduced by 27.5%, from 120 also been made in the B1 floor of better preparation. of 162 flight hours. According to payment. Users can then enter and the number of private cars, good vehicles/h to 87 vehicles/h, while No.3 parking building, including a As early as 2012, ETC lanes have Huang, parking at the airport’s exit the car park hands-free, with- parking spacesat parking lots are the flow of untimed car parks change of parking direction from been set up in the three parking car park used to entail preparing out having to wait. often saturated. That’s why the has risen around 21.3%, from 59 eastward to northward, with the buildings of Beijing Capital Airport. change in advance but the popu- A new function allows users Capital Airport Parking Building vehicles/h to 75 vehicles/h. The addition of 5 short lanes and 1 Recently, a new system upgrade larization of QR code payments who have activated the payment continuously optimizesits resourc- solution has brought an end to south entrance. Moreover, passage prevents long-term car-parkers from made it easier to get work done. method on both Alipay and es and is committed to improving the congestion, a considerable C08 and C09 of the No.3 parking being stopped when leaving the car “Last time, it was so convenient, I WeChat to select the default the efficiency of on-site driving. reduction of queuing time and a building were rebuilt in order to parks, raising the ETC passing rate didn’t even have to take my phone payment platform. Based on the analysis and balance of car flow from each exit simplify the parking procedure from 88.5% to 99.8%. out of my pocket. I would give Advanced payment is also popu- estimates of the car flow from the at peak times. and reduce parking time. Thanks While improving the level of a ‘like’ for this newly-launched lar among travelers. Passengers main exit on the 1st floor of the Meanwhile, multiple methods to the aforementioned measures, smart parking services, Capital unconscious payment service.” can use WeChat or Alipay appli- No.2 Parking Building, airport specific to different areas have traffic jams that used to haunt the Airport is also constantly innovat- cation to scan the QR code in administration switched been adopted by Beijing Capital C zone are now a thing of the past. ing by improving public facilities. DIVERSIFIED PAYMENT OP- advance in the car area, then enter the No.6 and No.7 Airport to make everything more Given the idiosyncrasy of On August 1, 2018, 16 eco-toi- TIONS the license plate number on the exits from efficient. A special passage for online car-hailing services, opti- lets were officially opened in the The automatic payment prepayment page, confirm the pick-up and drop-off, for example, mized measures catering to both taxi zone on the second floor mentioned by Huang is a service arrival time, parking time, and has been added to the east side of passengers and cars have been of the No. 3 parking lot for the launched by Beijing Capital parking fee and process the No.2 parking building. This implemented to tackle manage- convenience of passengers and International Airport on platforms payment. solution has increased car flow ment issues of No.3 parking taxi drivers. such as Alipay and WeChat. Since Capital 63%, from 492 vehicles/h to 802 building. The airport authority In the future, the airport will January 15, the airport’s car park vehicles/h. As a result, traffic has has created a pick-up platform on implement more smart parking has upgraded its smart parking become more orderly, as it is less the B2 floor, along with neces- projects, such as a smart parking service and extended the pool of congested. Furthermore, a quick sary markers and signs and a system and car-parking robots. eligible customers by including passage has been set up in the comfortable environment. The Thanks to modern technology, WeChat automatic payment for same building, spanning from the guidance will lead passengers to improved services will save passen- parking fees, after first launch- first-floor entrance to the east side the B2 floor from the elevator gers and travelers loads of trouble ing iton Alipay and allowing of the B1 floor of the same parking and help the short-term pick-up when parking.

92 93 Flying | Ask The Captain

Passenger A is having headache, while Passenger B is busy with his own business, free from the influence of landing.

“Our plane is descending now. Please be seated and fasten your seat belt. Seat backs and tables should be returned to the upright position. ”

Zhang Yao Luo Yong It’s more than Swallowing can ease discomfort. I’m having Xiamen Air China United Airlines the discomfort. an intolerable headache. Flight Hours: Near 7,800 hours Flight Hours: 6,000 hours Aircraft Type: B737 Aircraft Type: B737

When landing, is it true that the smaller the G-force is, Why are we required to open the window the better? shades, place seats in their upright position A smaller G-force means a gentler landing. and fold the tray tablesduring take-off and As civil aviators, when we’re preparing to land, landing? our top priority is to make sure the flight lands in the Opening the window shades: touch-down zone with a proper rate of descent, steady If the lighting for the emergency exits and positioning, and suitable airspeed for the plane to cabin were to cease functioning for any reason, decelerate. opening the window shades would allow us to Therefore, landing gently is not what concerns us receive auxiliary lighting, so that passengers most. But we do our best to make our passengers feel as could evacuate by using the light coming in comfortable as possible. from the side windows, helping to ensure order. It’s typically good if the passengers can feel the landing, In the event of an emergency, we would be as that means the aircraft’s air-ground logic will change able to easily check the outside conditions, I’m feeling from air mode to ground mode right away, allowing us helping us choose the safest side of the plane to Hold your nose, much better. to utilize the proper equipment and techniques (such as evacuate from. and exhale. braking, air braking, and reverse thrusting) to decelerate. It provides convenience to any outside Under some adverse weather conditions, manual rescue personnel, should they need to observe operation is needed for a hard landing. For example, conditions in the cabin. when there is water on the runway, the layer of water It allows for the cabin crew and passengers will separate the runway from the wheels. In this case, to easily observe the outside fuselage, especially the aircraft’s air-ground logic stays in air mode, resulting the engines. in the delayed automatic extension of the air brakes and Placing seats in their upright positions and increased landing distances. When things get really bad, folding the tray tables: it may cause hydroplaning, resulting in braking delays or This frees up the space in front of the seats failures, and even a landing distance that surpasses the and keeps the rows clear of obstructions for length of the strip. During such times, a “hard” landing easier evacuation. can destroy the water film on the surface of the runway, It keeps the cabin crew and passengers from so that the aircraft’s air-ground logic switches to ground possibly getting hurt by the tray tables in the mode right away to avoid any hydroplaning. event that an emergency landing is needed.

94 95 Flying | News

ETIHAD SWITCHING TO DREAMLINER EMIRATES FORGES CODESHARE ON ALL ITS CHINA ROUTES PARTNERSHIP WITH CHINA Etihad will fly its Boeing 787 aircraft on the same day, though that the 787-9 would be returning SOUTHERN AIRLINES Dreamliner aircraft on all of its it will trade the older 787-9 for the to the Hong Kong route starting services to China as of July 1, when new 787-10. March 31. Emirates and China Southern Airlines have signed a its daily flights between Abu Dhabi The new aircraft deployment Etihad’s 787-9s are configured with Memorandum of Understanding to develop a compre- and Chengdu get an upgrade that means that Etihad’s Dreamliners will 299 seats, comprising of 28 Business hensive reciprocal codeshare agreement, which is will see the 787-9 take over from the operate all 28 of its weekly services Studios and 271 economy class seats. set to open up new destinations for passengers trav- Airbus A330-200. to China, which serve Beijing, It’s newer – and larger – 787-10s, eling between China and the Middle East and Africa. The airline’s daily Shanghai Shanghai, Chengdu, and Hong meanwhile, offer 32 Business Studios The partnership with the Guangzhou-based carrier service will also see a change in Kong. Etihad announced last month and 304 economy class seats. also allows Emirates’ passengers to enjoy seamless minimum connection times when flying to destina- connectivity on domestic flights within China, adding tions in Emirates’ Middle East network, such as Riyadh, eight new destinations to its global network. The Jeddah, Dammam, Muscat, Kuwait, and Cairo. The Chinese cities covered by the codeshare agreement codeshare agreement also includes flights to African will include Fuzhou, Chongqing, Kunming, Qingdao, destinations such as Seychelles and Lagos, operated Xiamen, Chengdu, Nanjing, and Xi’an during the by Emirates. initial phase of the partnership. The move is subject to With the UAE’s visa-free policy for Chinese visitors, necessary government approvals. passengers can also enjoy hassle-free stopovers in Passengers traveling from China will have more Dubai and experience what the city has to offer before choices and be able to travel seamlessly with flying to their final destinations.

CATHAY PACIFIC DRAWS ON ITS ROOTS BY ROLLING OUT NEW “HONG KONG FLAVORS”DINING SERIES ACROSS ALL CABIN CLASSES

Cathay Pacific has rolled out a premium economy, and economy new series of menus featuring locally class. inspired dishes that will be served to For business class passengers in passengers in all classes on flights particular, the updated menu adds departing Hong Kong. to Cathay Pacific’s revamped restau- The airline’s “Hong Kong Flavors” rant-style dining concept, which it concept will see new and updated began rolling out last summer, and dishes added to its in-flight culi- will be available in business class nary offering, with separate menus across all long-haul flights by June for passengers in first, business, this year. upon taking a call from a prep school SCHOOL OF looking for his roommate to take over ROCK TO LAND IN a class temporarily, Dewey decides BEIJING to take Ned’s place and becomes a substitute teacher. But he’s not going SOUTH AFRICAN TOURISM KICKS-OFF to teach the kids mathematics, instead 2019 NATIONWIDE MEDIA ROADSHOW proclaiming “They should be taught to become the most awesome rock South African Tourism launched hosting of the BRICS summit in find it even more convenient to band of all time!” Can they win the a nationwide media roadshow at Johannesburg. According to data visit South Africa. Cathay Pacific rock and roll competition while under the Kerry Hotel in Beijing. The road- from South African Tourism, the recently launched a seasonal direct The original English version of platforms. the supervision of their conservative show took place from January 14 to number of Chinese tourists visit- service between its Hong Kong Andrew Lloyd Webber’s latest The musical School of Rock is based headmaster and overbearing parents? 18 and made stops at each of China’s ing South Africa continued to grow hub and Cape Town, while Air Broadway musical, School of Rock, on the 2003 film of the same name, In 2016, the musical School of first-tier cities: Beijing, Shanghai, and from April to September 2018, China has added Shenzhen as a will be playing at Beijing Tianqiao directed by Richard Linklater. It tells Rock was nominated for four Tony Guangzhou. increasing by 8.6 percent year on stopover station for its three-times- Performing Arts Center from March the story of Dewey Finn, who dreams Awards, five Drama Desk Awards and 2018 was a remarkable year for year. Meanwhile, from January to a-week flight between Beijing and 22 to April 14. A total of 29 show- of being a rock star but suffers blow six Broadway.com Audience Awards the relationship between China June 2018, the spending power of Johannesburg since January 2019. ings will be performed in Beijing. after blow in life. He’s been kicked out and won in 2017 the Whats On Stage and South Africa. It not only saw Chinese tourists in South Africa also Visa facilitation centers have also Tickets are now available on Beijing of his band andfired from his job at a Award for Best New Musical, as well the 20th anniversary of diplo- showed strong momentum, with a been established in 11 Chinese cities, Tianqiao Performing Arts Center’s record store, and his roommate Ned is as the Laurence Olivier Award for matic relations between the two significant increase of 187%. meaning easy access to visas for official website, Damai.com and other pressuring him to make rent. One day, Outstanding Achievement in Music. countries, but also the successful In 2019, Chinese travelers will more Chinese than ever before.

96 97 SKY TIMES Inflight Magazine