An overseas returnee behind China’s aerospace ambition

For Dr. Xu, China’s reform and opening up, whether it is from the perspective of the country or from a personal point of view, is a process of making dreams take off. Back in the 1970s, the Shanghai Aircraft Manufacturing Factory was underdeveloped. But today, looking over the Middle Ring Road, people will see the impressive building of the Shanghai Aircraft Design and Research Institute. That symbolizes a great leap: “Thanks to the policy of reform and opening up, Shanghai has become a major innovation center of aviation manufacturing.” As Dr. Xu put it, being realistically able to return to China to help develop the country’s aviation industry by drawing upon his experience of working in a world-class enterprise, has been long-awaited. C919 has not only provided him with a platform for career development, but also fulfilled his dream of coming back to his motherland. He is proud of being an aviation worker in China.

(Wishes for the ongoing process of reform and opening up from Jun Xu: Stay true to the original aspiration, be confident and keep innovating for the wellbeing of the people and the prosperity of the country.)

Story by Wu Qiong

Cameraman: Fan Yicheng