standing by and watching the superb take-off of Boeing 777X N779XW

The result of a joint French-Chinese venture, this would appear to be the first China-built example of the so-called 'super-medium' Airbus H-175 helicopter. Whether the jokey-looking registration was intentional is unknown!

With a strange alpha-only registration, this is the latest development of the Y-12 series with wider fuselage, swept tail, new wings, retractable landing gear and more powerful engines. This demonstrator version has been named 'Aircar'. The type gained FAA certification in early 2016.

Unfortunately no identity is carried or so far known for this demonstrator Y-5BG, a TPE-331 turboprop conversion of the Chinese-built version of the venerable An-2. Other improvements include adjustable slotted wings and a modified upper wing leading edge to reduce airflow stall and further enhance low-speed performance. The cockpit has also undergone a major update, including an IFR-standard Garmin Integrated Avionics System.

Unfortunately the sun refused to play on the day that I was inside the show, but there's no getting away from what a formidable sight China's huge new flying boat actually presents. Although it appeared at the last China Airshow in 2016, it hadn't yet flown at that time, having been built here at Zhuhai. The first flight did not take place till 24th December 2017 with the initial water-borne take-off and landing trials beginning as recently as 20th October 2018. Large sales are not expected although 17 are on order for the Chinese government. Export hopes rest mainly on firefighting capabilities.

The Dubai Air Show was the foreign debut for this Chinese advanced jet trainer. Nanchang Aviation is a subsidiary of the China Aviation Industry Corporation (AVIC). Pictured here being towed back to its static parking position after completing its flying display. No serial was visible on the aircraft.

Making its international debut was the third example built of the 'Modern Ark', an improved version of the MA-60, which was due to be delivered to Lao Airlines after the demonstration role

From China With Love