The Grey Zone

Share this post

User's avatar
The Grey Zone
Analysis: China Closing the Gap Between US and Chinese Fighter Pilots
The Compartment

Analysis: China Closing the Gap Between US and Chinese Fighter Pilots

The People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) is stepping up its game with a new training regime that focuses on matching the capabilities of the United States in potential air-to-air conflicts.

ALCON Intelligence's avatar
ALCON Intelligence
Jan 16, 2023
∙ Paid

Share this post

User's avatar
The Grey Zone
Analysis: China Closing the Gap Between US and Chinese Fighter Pilots
Share

The Grey Zone is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

The People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) is making significant changes to its training regime, with a greater focus on matching the capabilities of the United States in potential air-to-air conflicts. According to recent reports, the average fighter pilot in the PLAAF can expect to receive around 100 hours of flight time annually, while bomber pilots will receive slightly more at 150 hours. This is significantly less than the authorized flight time received by US pilots, who can receive over 300 hours a year.

Keep reading with a 7-day free trial

Subscribe to The Grey Zone to keep reading this post and get 7 days of free access to the full post archives.

Already a paid subscriber? Sign in
© 2025 ALCON Intelligence Ltd
Privacy ∙ Terms ∙ Collection notice
Start writingGet the app
Substack is the home for great culture

Share