Core Viewpoint - The civil aviation industry is facing increasing competition from high-speed rail, particularly in routes extending beyond 800 kilometers, prompting a strategic focus on enhancing service quality to attract first-time flyers [1][2][3]. Group 1: Impact of High-Speed Rail - High-speed rail has expanded its competitive influence on air travel, affecting routes over 1000 kilometers, particularly in the northwest region of China [1]. - Major air routes such as Xi'an to Lanzhou, Yinchuan, Xining, and Chengdu have seen significant declines in daily flight numbers and passenger volumes due to high-speed rail competition [1]. Group 2: First-Time Passenger Services - The civil aviation sector is implementing "first-time passenger services" to tap into the market potential of nearly 1 billion people who have never flown [1][2]. - Airports in provinces like Shaanxi, Gansu, Ningxia, and Qinghai have established "first-time passenger service stations" to facilitate service reservations and provide assistance [2]. - The service includes comprehensive support throughout the travel process, addressing common anxieties of first-time flyers with clear guidance and assistance [2]. Group 3: Targeting Remote Areas - The civil aviation industry is focusing on remote and long-distance routes as key areas for market expansion, particularly in regions where ground transportation is limited [3]. - Initiatives include outreach programs in rural communities and schools to promote air travel knowledge and first-time passenger products [3]. Group 4: International Market Strategies - The international aviation market is a critical area for differentiated competition against high-speed rail, with efforts to enhance international first-time passenger services [4]. - Airlines like China Eastern Airlines are optimizing service processes for international first-time travelers, including providing essential travel information and personalized assistance [4]. Group 5: Regulatory Support and Standards - The Civil Aviation Administration of China is strengthening the framework for first-time passenger services through guidelines and standardization efforts [5][6]. - Since 2021, over 30 million people have flown for the first time annually, with significant participation in first-time passenger service programs across 24 airports in the northwest region [6]. - In 2024, major airlines in the northwest sold 291,200 specialized tickets for first-time passengers, generating approximately 186.33 million yuan in revenue [6].