China Southern Airlines, the largest airline in China, has outlined goals for its newly-announced charitable giving programs.
In a detailed interview, China Southern Airlines Chairman Liu Shaoyong outlined the airlines programs, saying, "In an effort to give back to the Chinese people and our passengers, China Southern Airlines has devoted RMB 20 Million (US$1.4 Million) to create its '10 Fen' Caring Foundation."
He explained that, "0.1 yuan (10 fen) from each flight ticket will be devoted to the work of this foundation, which we expect will total approximately RMB 5 Million per year, based on annual passenger turnover. The fund will be used to support the improvement of China's educational infrastructure, helping the impoverished and handicapped as well as providing aid during times of disasters and epidemics. The first donation has already been made to needy students of 11 universities throughout China."
China Southern's previous charitable programs have included "Sunshine Youth" (encouraging excellence in middle-school students); "Sunshine Act" (part of the fight against SARS); "Affection Act" (operating Spring Festival charter flights to Taiwan); as well as cash donations to building Hope Primary Schools in Hotan, Xinjiang and Yangshan in Guangdong Province.
