Unassociated Document


 
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
___________________

FORM 6-K

Report of Foreign Private Issuer
Pursuant to Rule 13a-16 or 15d-16
under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

For the month of August 2008.

Commission File Number: 001-14550

China Eastern Airlines Corporation Limited
——————————————————————————————————— 
(Translation of Registrant’s name into English)

2550 Hongqiao Road
Hongqiao Airport
Shanghai, China 200335
———————————————————————————————————
(Address of principal executive offices)

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant files or will file annual reports under cover of Form 20-F or Form 40-F:  x Form 20-F    o Form 40-F

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is submitting the Form 6-K in paper as permitted by Regulation S-T Rule 101(b)(1):  o

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is submitting the Form 6-K in paper as permitted by Regulation S-T Rule 101(b)(7):  o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant by furnishing the information contained in this Form is also thereby furnishing the information to the Commission pursuant to Rule 12g3-2(b) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934:  o Yes    x No

If "Yes" is marked, indicate below the file number assigned to the registrant in connection with Rule 12g3-2(b):    n/a 



SIGNATURES
 
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
         
      China Eastern Airlines Corporation Limited
              (Registrant)
   
 
   
 
 
 
Date August 27, 2008   By  /s/ Luo Zhuping
    Name: Luo Zhuping 
    Title: Company Secretary
 

 
Certain statements contained in this announcement may be regarded as "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may cause the actual performance, financial condition or results of operations of the Company to be materially different from any future performance, financial condition or results of operations implied by such forward-looking statements. Further information regarding these risks, uncertainties and other factors is included in the Company's filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. The forward-looking statements included in this announcement represent the Company's views as of the date of this announcement. While the Company anticipates that subsequent events and developments may cause the Company's views to change, the Company specifically disclaims any obligation to update these forward-looking statements, unless required by applicable laws. These forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as representing the Company's views as of any date subsequent to the date of this announcement.
 

(A joint stock limited company incorporated in the People’s Republic of China with limited liability)
(Stock code: 670)

2008 INTERIM RESULTS ANNOUNCEMENT

The board of directors (the “Board”) of China Eastern Airlines Corporation Limited (the “Company”) hereby presents the unaudited interim consolidated financial results of the Company and its subsidiaries (collectively, the “Group”) for the six months ended 30 June 2008 (which were approved by the Board and the audit committee of the Company (the “Audit Committee”) on 26 August 2008), with comparative figures for the corresponding financial information in 2007.

The interim consolidated financial information of the Group for the six months ended 30 June 2008 is unaudited and does not necessarily indicate the annual or future results.

1


INTERIM FINANCIAL INFORMATION
 
Prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”)

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENT
           
For the six months ended 30 June 2008
             
 
           
(Unaudited)
 
           
Six months ended 30 June
 
           
2008
   
2007
 
 
   
Note
   
RMB000
   
RMB’000
 
                     
Revenues
   
4
   
20,310,742
   
19,047,452
 
Other operating income, net
   
5
   
550,571
   
547,055
 
Operating expenses
                   
Aircraft fuel
         
(8,567,306
)
 
(6,974,569
)
Take-off and landing charges
         
(2,654,302
)
 
(2,534,090
)
Depreciation and amortisation
         
(2,313,609
)
 
(2,164,814
)
Wages, salaries and benefits
         
(2,028,985
)
 
(1,795,944
)
Aircraft maintenance
         
(1,081,840
)
 
(1,228,105
)
Food and beverages
         
(661,295
)
 
(568,501
)
Aircraft operating lease rentals
         
(1,362,399
)
 
(1,452,674
)
Other operating lease rentals
         
(167,780
)
 
(118,144
)
Selling and marketing expenses
         
(801,723
)
 
(748,180
)
Civil aviation infrastructure levies
         
(373,380
)
 
(382,247
)
Ground services and other charges
         
(78,549
)
 
(84,281
)
Office, administrative and other expenses
         
(1,848,463
)
 
(1,797,546
)
Total operating expenses
         
(21,939,631
)
 
(19,849,095
)
                     
Operating loss
         
(1,078,318
)
 
(254,588
)
Finance income
   
6
   
1,946,994
   
778,144
 
Finance costs
   
7
   
(1,065,464
)
 
(899,466
)
Share of results of associates
         
45,700
   
33,691
 
Share of results of jointly controlled entities
         
6,869
   
9,869
 
Loss before income tax
         
(144,219
)
 
(332,350
)
Income tax
   
8
   
(44,664
)
 
(51,604
)
Loss for the period
         
(188,883
)
 
(383,954
)
Attributable to:
                   
Equity holders of the Company
         
(212,497
)
 
(305,624
)
Minority interests
         
23,614
   
(78,330
)
           
(188,883
)
 
(383,954
)
Loss per share attributable to equity holders of
                   
the Company during the period
                   
- basic and diluted
   
9
   
(0.04
)
 
(0.06
)
 
2

 
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET
As at 30 June 2008

 
         
(Unaudited
)   
(Audited
)
 
         
30 June
   
31 December
 
           
2008
   
2007
 
 
   
Note
   
RMB000
   
RMB’000
 
Non-current assets
                   
Intangible assets
         
1,200,578
   
1,244,706
 
Property, plant and equipment
   
12
   
48,071,118
   
47,548,204
 
Lease prepayments
         
955,653
   
967,497
 
Advanced payments on acquisition of aircraft
   
13
   
9,426,705
   
6,695,573
 
Investments in associates
         
1,011,809
   
601,119
 
Investments in jointly controlled entities
         
343,835
   
336,966
 
Available-for-sale financial assets
         
31,268
   
53,236
 
Other long-term assets
         
850,610
   
660,751
 
Deferred tax assets
         
122,281
   
113,211
 
Derivative assets
         
2,374
   
6,077
 
           
62,016,231
   
58,227,340
 
Current assets
                   
Flight equipment spare parts
         
1,132,168
   
1,124,936
 
Trade receivables
   
14
   
2,098,315
   
2,096,007
 
Amounts due from related companies
         
148,024
   
65,455
 
Prepayments, deposits and other receivables
         
3,181,209
   
2,555,649
 
Cash and cash equivalents
         
4,617,799
   
1,655,244
 
Derivative assets
         
417,641
   
89,470
 
Non-current assets held for sale
         
682,914
   
2,262,058
 
           
12,278,070
   
9,848,819
 
Current liabilities
                   
Sales in advance of carriage
         
1,172,548
   
1,211,209
 
Trade payables and notes payable
   
15
   
3,190,505
   
3,137,880
 
Amounts due to related companies
         
656,692
   
671,593
 
Other payables and accrued expenses
         
10,233,425
   
9,624,491
 
Current portion of obligations under finance leases
   
16
   
1,967,295
   
2,545,223
 
Current portion of borrowings
   
17
   
25,455,895
   
18,494,521
 
Income tax payable
         
83,134
   
90,867
 
Derivative liabilities
         
59,425
   
20,238
 
Liabilities directly associated with non-current
                   
assets held for sale
         
60,635
   
127,239
 
           
42,879,554
   
35,923,261
 
Net current liabilities
         
(30,601,484
)
 
(26,074,442
)
Total assets less current liabilities
         
31,414,747
   
32,152,898
 

3

 
 
         
(Unaudited
)   
(Audited
)
 
         
30 June
   
31 December
 
           
2008
   
2007
 
 
   
Note
   
RMB000
   
RMB’000
 
Non-current liabilities
                   
Obligations under finance leases
   
16
   
13,494,754
   
13,906,987
 
Borrowings
   
17
   
11,232,953
   
11,369,307
 
Provision for aircraft overhaul expenses
         
1,057,774
   
956,910
 
Other long-term liabilities
         
804,823
   
864,336
 
Deferred tax liabilities
         
50,369
   
50,369
 
Post-retirement benefit obligations
         
1,395,870
   
1,370,702
 
Derivative liabilities
         
48,154
   
21,558
 
           
28,084,697
   
28,540,169
 
Net assets
         
3,330,050
   
3,612,729
 
Equity
                   
Capital and reserves attributable to the equity holders
                   
of the Company
                   
- Share capital
   
18
   
4,866,950
   
4,866,950
 
- Reserves
         
(2,093,780
)
 
(1,839,187
)
           
2,773,170
   
3,027,763
 
Minority interests
         
556,880
   
584,966
 
Total equity
         
3,330,050
   
3,612,729
 
 
4

 
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
For the six months ended 30 June 2008 

 
 
Attributable to equity
             
 
 
holders of the Company
             
 
   
Share
 
Other Accumulated
       
Minority
   
Total
 
 
   
capital
   
reserves
   
losses
   
Subtotal
   
interests
   
equity
 
 
   
RMB’000
   
RMB’000
   
RMB’000
   
RMB’000
   
RMB’000
   
RMB’000
 
Six months ended 30 June 2008
                                     
(Unaudited)
                                     
Balances as at 1 January 2008
   
4,866,950
   
798,039
   
(2,637,226
)
 
3,027,763
   
584,966
   
3,612,729
 
Cash flow hedges, net of tax
   
-
   
(22,900
)
 
-
   
(22,900
)
 
-
   
(22,900
)
(Loss)/profit for the period
   
-
   
-
   
(212,497
)
 
(212,497
)
 
23,614
   
(188,883
)
Revaluation of available for sale
                                     
investments in associates
   
-
   
(19,196
)
 
-
   
(19,196
)
 
-
   
(19,196
)
Transfer of revaluation surplus to
                                     
accumulated loss upon disposal
                                     
of aircraft
   
-
   
(100,803
)
 
100,803
   
-
   
-
   
-
 
Dividends paid to minority
                                     
investors in subsidiaries
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
(51,700
)
 
(51,700
)
Balances as at 30 June 2008
   
4,866,950
   
655,140
   
(2,748,920
)
 
2,773,170
   
556,880
   
3,330,050
 
Six months ended 30 June 2007
                                     
(Unaudited)
                                     
Balances as at 1 January 2007
   
4,866,950
   
1,282,877
   
(3,334,930
)
 
2,814,897
   
661,746
   
3,476,643
 
Cash flow hedges, net of tax
   
-
   
17,563
   
-
   
17,563
   
-
   
17,563
 
Loss for the period
   
-
   
-
   
(305,624
)
 
(305,624
)
 
(78,330
)
 
(383,954
)
Dividends paid to minority
                                     
investors in subsidiaries
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
-
   
(500
)
 
(500
)
Balances as at 30 June 2007
   
4,866,950
   
1,300,440
   
(3,640,554
)
 
2,526,836
   
582,916
   
3,109,752
 
 
5


CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOW STATEMENT
For the six months ended 30 June 2008

 
 
(Unaudited)
 
 
Six months ended 30 June
     
2008
   
2007
 
   
RMB000
   
RMB’000
 
               
Net cash inflow from operating activities
   
1,082,688
   
2,567,926
 
Net cash outflow from investing activities
   
(3,046,153
)
 
(1,398,654
)
Net cash inflow/(outflow) from financing activities
   
4,960,802
   
(1,341,253
)
               
Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
   
2,997,337
   
(171,981
)
Cash and cash equivalents at 1 January
   
1,655,244
   
1,987,486
 
Exchange adjustments
   
(34,782
)
 
66,678
 
               
Cash and cash equivalents at 30 June
   
4,617,799
   
1,882,183
 

6

 
NOTES TO THE CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED INTERIM FINANCIAL INFORMATION

1.  
Corporate Information
 
 
China Eastern Airlines Corporation Limited (the “Company”), a joint stock company limited by shares was incorporated in the People’s Republic of China (“the PRC”) on 14 April 1995. The address of its registered office is 66 Airport Street, Pudong International Airport, Shanghai, the PRC. The Company and its subsidiaries (together, the “Group”) are principally engaged in the operation of civil aviation, including the provision of passenger, cargo, and mail delivery and other extended transportation services.
 
 
The Company is majority owned by China Eastern Air Holding Company (“CEA Holding”), a state-owned enterprise incorporated in the PRC.
 
 
The Company’s shares are traded on The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited, The New York Stock Exchange and The Shanghai Stock Exchange.
 
2.  
Basis of preparation
 
 
This unaudited condensed consolidated interim financial information for the six months ended 30 June 2008 has been prepared in accordance with International Accounting Standard (“IAS”) 34 “Interim Financial Reporting”. The unaudited condensed consolidated interim financial information should be read in conjunction with the annual financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2007.
 
 
The Group’s accumulated losses were approximately RMB2,749 million as at 30 June 2008 and its current liabilities exceeded its current assets by approximately RMB30,601 million. Based on the Group’s history of obtaining finance, its relationships with its bankers and banking facilities available, the Board of Directors (the “Board”) of the Company (the “Directors”) consider that the Group will be able to obtain sufficient financing to enable it to operate and meet its liabilities as and when they fall due. Accordingly, it is appropriate that these consolidated financial statements should be prepared on a going concern basis and they do not include any adjustments that would be required should the Company and the Group fail to continue as a going concern.
 
3.  
Accounting policies
 
 
Except as described below, the accounting policies adopted are consistent with those of the annual financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2007, as described in those annual financial statements.
 
 
Taxes on income in the interim periods are accrued using the tax rate that would be applicable to expected total annual earnings.
 
 
The Group has adopted the following interpretation which is relevant to the Group’s operations and is mandatory for the financial year ending 31 December 2008.
   
  IFRIC 14    IAS 19 - The limit on a defined benefit asset, minimum funding requirements and their interaction
   
  The adoption of the above interpretation did not have any significant impact on its results of operations or financial position.
   
  The Group has not early adopted new standards, amendments to standards and interpretations which have been issued but are not effective for 2008. The Group is assessing the impact of these new standards, amendments to standards and interpretations but is not yet in a position to state whether any substantial changes to the Group’s accounting policies or to the presentation of the financial statements will be required.
 
7

 
4.  
Revenues and segment information
 
(a)  
Revenues
 
 
The Group is principally engaged in the operation of civil aviation, including the provision of passenger, cargo, mail delivery and other extended transportation services.
 
 
 
(Unaudited)
 
 
Six months ended 30 June
     
2008
   
2007
 
 
   
RMB000
   
RMB’000
 
Revenues
             
- Passenger
   
16,850,421
   
16,252,553
 
- Cargo and mail
   
2,838,951
   
2,475,853
 
Ground service income
   
609,806
   
437,388
 
Cargo handling income
   
181,122
   
168,517
 
Commission income
   
91,761
   
63,956
 
Others
   
259,108
   
138,597
 
     
20,831,169
   
19,536,864
 
Less: Business tax (Note)
   
(520,427
)
 
(489,412
)
     
20,310,742
   
19,047,452
 

 
Note:
 
 
Except for traffic revenues derived from inbound international and regional flights, which are not subject to the PRC business tax, the Group’s traffic revenues, commission income, ground service income, cargo handling income and other revenues are subject to PRC business tax levied at rates of 3% or 5%, pursuant to PRC business tax rules and regulations.
 
(b)  
Segment information
 
 
In accordance with the Group’s internal financial reporting, the Group has determined that business segments be presented as the primary reporting format and geographical as the secondary reporting format.
 
(i)  
Primary reporting format by business segment
 
 
The Group has two business segments, namely passenger and cargo and logistics, which are structured and managed separately, according to the nature of their operations and the services they provide.
 
(1)  
Passenger business segment includes cargo carried by passenger flights.
 
(2)  
Inter-segment transfers or transactions are entered into under normal commercial terms and conditions that would also be available to unrelated third parties.
 
8


The segment results for the six months ended 30 June 2008 are as follows:
             
 
  
 
(Unaudited)
 
 
          Cargo and              
 
   
Passenger
   
logistics
   
Unallocated
   
Total
 
 
   
RMB000
   
RMB’000
   
RMB’000
   
RMB’000
 
                           
Traffic revenues
   
17,515,033
   
1,682,290
   
-
   
19,197,323
 
Other revenues and
                         
operating income
   
716,753
   
546,148
   
131,791
   
1,394,692
 
                           
Total segment revenue
   
18,231,786
   
2,228,438
   
131,791
   
20,592,015
 
Inter-segment revenue
   
(204,678
)
 
-
   
(76,595
)
 
(281,273
)
                           
Revenue
   
18,027,108
   
2,228,438
   
55,196
   
20,310,742
 
                           
Operating (loss)/profit
                         
- segment results
   
(1,280,463
)
 
160,861
   
41,284
   
(1,078,318
)
 
The segment results for the six months ended 30 June 2007 are as follows:
             
 
 
 
(Unaudited)
 
 
          Cargo and              
 
   
Passenger
   
logistics
   
Unallocated
   
Total
 
 
   
RMB’000
   
RMB’000
   
RMB’000
   
RMB’000
 
                           
Traffic revenues
   
16,991,665
   
1,268,516
   
-
   
18,260,181
 
Other revenues and
                         
operating income
   
417,811
   
394,332
   
103,782
   
915,925
 
                           
Total segment revenue
   
17,409,476
   
1,662,848
   
103,782
   
19,176,106
 
Inter-segment revenue
   
(67,087
)
 
-
   
(61,567
)
 
(128,654
)
                           
Revenues
   
17,342,389
   
1,662,848
   
42,215
   
19,047,452
 
                           
Operating (loss)/profit
                         
- segment results
   
(214,774
)
 
(56,657
)
 
16,843
   
(254,588
)

(ii)  
Secondary reporting format by geographical segment
 
 
The Group’s two business segments operate in four main geographical areas, even though they are managed on a worldwide basis.
 
 
The Group’s revenues (net of business tax) by geographical segment are analysed based on the following criteria:
 
(1)  
Traffic revenue from services within the PRC (excluding the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (“Hong Kong”)) is classified as domestic operations. Traffic revenue from inbound and outbound services between the PRC, Hong Kong or overseas markets is attributed to the segments based on the origin and destination of each flight segment.
 
(2)  
Revenue from ticket handling services, airport ground services and other miscellaneous services are classified on the basis of where the services are performed.

9


 
 
(Unaudited)
 
 
Six months ended 30 June
     
2008
   
2007
 
 
   
RMB000
   
RMB’000
 
               
  Domestic (the PRC, excluding Hong Kong)
   
11,450,374
   
10,734,319
 
  Hong Kong
   
1,253,071
   
1,342,746
 
  Japan
   
1,727,293
   
1,566,153
 
  Other countries
   
5,880,004
   
5,404,234
 
  Total
   
20,310,742
   
19,047,452
 
 
5. Other operating income, net
 
 
 
(Unaudited)
 
 
Six months ended 30 June
     
2008
   
2007
 
 
   
RMB000
   
RMB’000
 
               
 Government subsidies (Note)
   
180,031
   
408,129
 
 Net fair value gains on financial instruments
             
  - forward foreign exchange contracts
   
14,759
   
2,350
 
  - fuel hedging income
   
355,781
   
136,576
 
     
550,571
   
547,055
 
 
 
Note:
 
 
The government subsidies represent (i) subsidies granted by the local government to the Group; and (ii) other subsidies granted by various local municipalities to encourage the Group to operate certain routes to cities where these municipalities are located.
 
6. Finance income
 
 
 
(Unaudited)
 
   
Six months ended 30 June
 
     
2008
   
2007
 
 
   
RMB000
   
RMB’000
 
               
 Exchange gains, net (Note)
   
1,891,422
   
726,009
 
 Interest income
   
55,572
   
52,135
 
     
1,946,994
   
778,144
 
 
 
Note:
 
 
The exchange gain for the period ended 30 June 2008 primarily relates to the translation of the Group’s foreign currency denominated borrowings and obligations under finance leases at period-end exchange rates.

10

 
7. Finance costs
 
   
(Unaudited)
 
 
 
Six months ended 30 June
 
     
2008
   
2007
 
     
RMB’000
   
RMB’000
 
               
  Interest relating to obligations under finance leases
   
337,358
   
300,115
 
  Interest on loans from banks and other payables
   
932,259
   
816,993
 
  Fair value gain on financial instruments
             
  - transfer from equity in respect of interest rate
             
  swaps qualified as cash flow hedges
   
(29,747
)
 
(3,145
)
     
1,239,870
   
1,113,963
 
  Less: amounts capitalised into advance payments
             
  on acquisition of aircraft (Note 13)
   
(174,406
)
 
(214,497
)
     
1,065,464
   
899,466
 
 
8. Income tax
 
Income tax is charged to the consolidated income statement as follows:
 
   
(Unaudited)
 
   
Six months ended 30 June
 
     
2008
   
2007
 
     
RMB’000
   
RMB’000
 
               
  Provision for PRC income tax - current period
   
46,103
   
35,417
 
  Deferred taxation
   
(1,439
)
 
16,187
 
     
44,664
   
51,604
 

 
Note:
 
 
The Company is subject to PRC income tax at a rate of 25%. No provision for PRC profits tax has been made as the Company did not have assessable profit for the period. Subsidiaries of the Group are generally subject to the PRC corporate income tax at the standard tax rate.
 
 
The Group operated international flights to certain overseas destinations. There was no material overseas taxation for the six months ended 30 June 2008 as there exists double tax relief between the PRC and the corresponding jurisdictions (including Hong Kong) (2007: Nil).
 
9. Loss per share
 
 
The calculation of basic loss per share is based on the unaudited consolidated loss attributable to equity holders of the Company of RMB212,497,000 (2007: RMB305,624,000) and 4,866,950,000 (2007: 4,866,950,000) shares in issue during the period. The Company has no potentially dilutive ordinary shares.
 
10. Dividend
 
 
The Board of Directors of the Company does not recommend the payment of an interim dividend for the six months ended 30 June 2008 (2007: Nil).

11


11. Profit appropriation
 
 
No appropriation to the statutory reserves has been made during the six months ended 30 June 2008. Such appropriations will be made at the year end in accordance with the PRC regulations and the Articles of association of individual group companies.
 
12.  Property, plant and equipment

 
 
(Unaudited)
 
 
 
Six months ended 30 June 2008
 
   
Aircraft
             
 
   
and flight
             
 
   
equipment
   
Others
   
Total
 
 
   
RMB000
   
RMB’000
   
RMB’000
 
                     
 Carrying amounts at 1 January 2008
   
43,036,472
   
4,511,732
   
47,548,204
 
 Transfers from advance payments on acquisition
                   
 of aircraft (Note 13)
   
883,151
   
-
   
883,151
 
 Other additions
   
1,702,237
   
295,368
   
1,997,605
 
 Depreciation charged for the period
   
(1,998,439
)
 
(248,847
)
 
(2,247,286
)
 Disposals
   
(78,920
)
 
(31,636
)
 
(110,556
)
 Carrying amounts at 30 June 2008
   
43,544,501
   
4,526,617
   
48,071,118
 
                     
 
 
 (Unaudited)
 
 
 
Six months ended 30 June 2007
 
 
   
Aircraft
             
 
   
and flight
             
 
   
equipment
   
Others
   
Total
 
 
   
RMB’000
   
RMB’000
   
RMB’000
 
                     
 Carrying amounts at 1 January 2007
   
35,793,370
   
4,257,096
   
40,050,466
 
 Transfers from advance payments on acquisition
                   
 of aircraft (Note 13)
   
1,556,572
   
-
   
1,556,572
 
 Other additions
   
1,953,789
   
497,151
   
2,450,940
 
 Depreciation charged for the period
   
(1,895,020
)
 
(253,972
)
 
(2,148,992
)
 Disposals
   
(53,222
)
 
(69,691
)
 
(122,913
)
 Carrying amounts at 30 June 2007
   
37,355,489
   
4,430,584
   
41,786,073
 
                     
13. Advance payments on acquisition of aircraft
                   
 
         
 (Unaudited
)  
(Unaudited
)
 
         
 30 June
   
30 June
 
           
2008
   
2007
 
 
         
RMB’000
   
RMB’000
 
 At beginning of period
         
6,695,573
   
7,668,708
 
 Additions
         
3,439,877
   
1,665,948
 
 Interest capitalized (Note 7)
         
174,406
   
214,497
 
 Transfers to property, plant and equipment (Note 12)
         
(883,151
)
 
(1,556,572
)
 At end of period
         
9,426,705
   
7,992,581
 

Included in the Group’s balance sheet as at 30 June 2008 is accumulated interests capitalized of RMB666 million (2007: RMB553 million), at an average interest rate of 5.82% (2007: 5.90%).

12

 
14. Trade receivables
 
The credit terms given to trade customers are determined on an individual basis, with credit periods generally ranging from half a month to two months.
 
The aging analysis of trade receivables and notes receivable is as follows:

 
         
(Unaudited
)   
(Audited
)
 
         
30 June
   
31 December
 
           
2008
   
2007
 
 
         
RMB000
   
RMB’000
 
                     
 Within 90 days
         
1,811,992
   
1,761,799
 
 91 to 180 days
         
110,921
   
104,991
 
 181 to 365 days
         
131,845
   
187,355
 
 Over 365 days
         
103,155
   
101,769
 
           
2,157,913
   
2,155,914
 
 Less: Provision for impairment of receivables
         
(59,598
)
 
(59,907
)
           
2,098,315
   
2,096,007
 
                     
15. Trade payables and notes payable
   
 
             
                     
 The aging analysis of trade payables and notes payable is as follows:
                   
 
         
(Unaudited
)   
(Audited
)
 
         
30 June
   
31 December
 
           
2008
   
2007
 
 
         
RMB000
   
RMB’000
 
                     
 Within 90 days
         
2,052,907
   
1,465,079
 
 91 to 180 days
         
495,071
   
1,126,091
 
 181 to 365 days
         
504,233
   
449,391
 
 Over 365 days
         
138,294
   
97,319
 
           
3,190,505
   
3,137,880
 
                     
16. Obligations under finance leases
   
 
             
 
 
         
(Unaudited
)   
(Audited
)
 
         
30 June
   
31 December
 
           
2008
   
2007
 
 
         
RMB000
   
RMB’000
 
                     
 Within one year
         
1,967,295
   
2,545,223
 
 In the second year
         
1,428,245
   
1,567,253
 
 In the third to fifth year inclusive
         
4,235,031
   
4,205,352
 
 After the fifth year
         
7,831,478
   
8,134,382
 
 Total
         
15,462,049
   
16,452,210
 
 Less: amount repayable within one year
         
(1,967,295
)
 
(2,545,223
)
 Long-term portion
         
13,494,754
   
13,906,987
 

13


17. Borrowings
   
 
             
 
         
(Unaudited
)   
(Audited
)
 
         
30 June
   
31 December
 
           
2008
   
2007
 
 
         
RMB000
   
RMB’000
 
 Long-term bank borrowings
                   
  - secured
         
4,152,094
   
4,767,233
 
  - unsecured
         
12,165,077
   
9,907,593
 
           
16,317,171
   
14,674,826
 
 Less: current portion
         
(5,084,218
)
 
(3,305,519
)
 Non-current portion
         
11,232,953
   
11,369,307
 
 Short-term bank borrowings
         
20,371,677
   
15,189,002
 
 
18. Share capital
                 
 
         
(Unaudited
)   
(Audited
)
 
         
30 June
   
31 December
 
           
2008
   
2007
 
 
         
RMB000
   
RMB’000
 
                     
 Registered, issued and fully paid of RMB1.00 each
                   
 Circulating shares with restricted transfer held by CEA Holding
                   
 and employees
         
2,904,000
   
2,904,000
 
 A shares listed on The Shanghai Stock Exchange
         
396,000
   
396,000
 
 H shares listed on The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited
         
1,566,950
   
1,566,950
 
           
4,866,950
   
4,866,950
 

Pursuant to articles 49 and 50 of the Company’s Articles of Association, each of the unlisted shares, the listed A shares and the listed H shares are all registered ordinary shares and carry equal rights.

14


19. Commitments
                           
(a) Capital commitments
                             
  The Group had the following capital commitments:
                     
 
 
   
(Unaudited
)  
(Audited
)
 
   
30 June
   
31 December
 
     
2008
   
2007
 
 
   
RMB000
   
RMB’000
 
  Authorised and contracted for:
             
 - Aircraft, engines and flight equipment
   
59,457,656
   
50,852,865
 
  - Investment in associates
   
210,000
   
-
 
 - Other property, plant and equipment
   
200,357
   
353,771
 
     
59,868,013
   
51,206,636
 
  Authorised but not contracted for:
             
 - Other property, plant and equipment
   
8,788,889
   
11,326,338
 
     
68,656,902
   
62,532,974
 
(b) Operating lease commitments
             
               
  The Group had commitments under operating leases to pay future minimum lease rentals as follows:
   
 
 
 
(Unaudited)
(Audited)
 
 
30 June 2008
31 December 2007
 
   
Aircraft and
         
Aircraft and
       
 
   
flight
   
Land and
   
flight
   
Land and
 
 
   
equipment
   
buildings
   
equipment
   
buildings
 
 
   
RMB000
   
RMB000
   
RMB’000
   
RMB’000
 
                           
  Within one year
   
2,556,735
   
125,043
   
2,527,072
   
87,410
 
  In the second year
   
2,302,439
   
70,641
   
2,331,741
   
50,683
 
  In the third to fifth year inclusive
   
4,471,140
   
21,285
   
4,991,164
   
40,888
 
  After the fifth year
   
4,577,065
   
29,097
   
5,341,362
   
29,846
 
     
13,907,379
   
246,066
   
15,191,339
   
208,827
 
 
20. Related party transactions
                         

The Group is part of a larger group of companies under CEA Holding and has extensive transactions and relationships with members of CEA Holding. Related parties refer to entities of which CEA Holding is a shareholder and is able to exercise control or joint control. The transactions were made at prices and terms mutually agreed between the parties. The directors of the Company are of the opinion that the transactions with related parties (see below) during the year were conducted in the normal course of business.
 
The Group is controlled by CEA Holding, which owns approximately 59.67% of the Company’s shares as at 30 June 2008. The aviation industry in the PRC is administrated by the CAAC. CEA Holding and the Group is ultimately controlled by the PRC government, which also controls a significant portion of the productive assets and entities in the PRC (collectively referred as the “SOEs”).

15

 
(a)
 Related party transactions
         
         
(Unaudited)
         
Six months ended 30 June
 
 Nature of transactions
 Related party
 
2008
 
2007
       
 
RMB000
 
RMB’000
 
 (i)
With CEA Holding or companies directly or indirectly held by CEA Holding:
       
             
   
Interest income on deposits
 Eastern Air Group Finance Co., Ltd
 
11,965
 
6,129
   
at an average rate of 0.72%
 (“EAGF”)*
       
   
(2007: 0.72%) per annum
         
               
   
Interest expense on loans at rate of
 EAGF*
 
11,978
 
2,144
   
6.05% (2007: 5.54%) per annum
         
               
   
Commission expense on air tickets
 Shanghai Dongmei Aviation Travel
 
5,133
 
3,827
   
sold on behalf of the Group
 Co., Ltd (“SDATC”)*
       
               
     
 Shanghai Tourism (HK) Co., Ltd
 
2,370
 
2,610
     
 (“STCL”)***
       
               
   
Automobile maintenance fee
 CEA Development Co.
 
14,886
 
-
               
   
Land and building rental
 CEA Holding
 
27,700
 
27,700
               
   
Handling charges of 0.1% to 2%
 Eastern Aviation Import & Export
 
20,462
 
15,309
   
for the purchase of aircraft,
 Co., Ltd (“EAIEC”)*
       
   
flight spare parts, other property,
         
   
plant and flight equipment
         
               
   
Ticket reservation service charges
 Travel Sky Technology Limited***
 
115,581
 
111,396
   
for utilisation of computer
         
   
reservation system
         
               
   
Repairs and maintenance expense
 Shanghai Eastern Union Aviation
 
29,296
 
27,033
   
for aircraft and engines
 Wheels & Brakes Overhaul
       
     
 Engineering Co., Ltd
       
     
 (“Wheels & Brakes”)**
       
               
     
 Shanghai Technologies Aerospace
 
50,664
 
95,019
     
 Co., Ltd (“STA”)**
       
               
   
Supply of food and beverages
 Shanghai Eastern Air Catering Co.,
 
77,078
 
72,402
     
 Ltd (“SEAC”)***
       
               
     
 Qingdao Eastern Air Catering
 
13,104
 
10,929
     
 Investment Co., Ltd.***
       
               
     
 Xian Eastern Air Catering
 
18,300
 
8,010
     
 Investment Co., Ltd.***
       
               
     
 Yunnan Eastern Air Catering
 
20,038
 
15,599
     
 Investment Co., Ltd. (“YEAC”) ***
       
               
   
Advertising expense
 Eastern Aviation Advertising
 
2,682
 
6,360
     
 Services Co., Ltd (“CAASC”)*
       
 
16


         
 (Unaudited)
         
 Six months ended 30 June
 
 Nature of transactions
 Related party
 
2008
 
2007
       
 
RMB000
RMB’000
               
 
 (ii)
 With CAAC and its affiliates:
         
               
   
 Civil aviation infrastructure
 CAAC
 
373,380
 
382,247
   
 levies paid
         
               
   
 Aircraft insurance premium paid
 CAAC
 
77,311
 
52,009
   
 through CAAC which entered
         
   
 into the insurance policy
         
   
 on behalf of the Group
         
               
 
 (iii)
 With other state-controlled enterprises:
         
               
   
 Take-off and landing fees charges
 State-controlled airports
 
1,285,297
 
1,214,935
               
   
 Purchase of aircraft fuel
 State-controlled fuel suppliers
 
6,353,798
 
5,214,725
               
   
 Interest income on deposits at
 State-controlled banks
 
8,081
 
6,870
   
 an average rate of 0.72%
         
   
 (2007: 0.72%) per annum
         
               
   
 Interest expense on loans at
 State-controlled banks
 
827,886
 
607,715
   
 an average rate of 5.72%
         
   
 (2007: 6.0%) per annum
         
               
   
 Commission expense on air tickets
 Other PRC airlines
 
35,018
 
5,846
   
 sold on behalf of the Group
         
               
   
 Supply of food and beverages
 Other state-controlled enterprises
 
198,353
 
142,397
             
(b)
 Balances with related parties
         
             
 
 (i)
 Amounts due from related companies
         
         
(Unaudited
) 
(Audited)
         
30 June
 
31 December
   
 Company
   
2008
 
2007
       
RMB000
RMB’000
               
   
 SDATC*
   
21,133
 
16,378
   
 STCL***
   
8,855
 
2,914
   
 EAIEC*
   
72,836
 
26,166
   
 Other related companies
   
12,220
 
19,997
         
115,044
 
65,455

All amounts due from related companies are trade in nature, interest free and payable within normal credit terms given to trade customers.
 
17

 
 
(ii)
 Amounts due to related companies
           
         
(Unaudited)
 
(Audited)
 
         
30 June
 
31 December
 
   
 Company
   
2008
 
2007
 
       
 
RMB000
 
RMB’000
 
                 
   
 EAIEC*
   
(491,341
)
(470,349
)
   
 CEA Holding
   
(41,837
)
(40,214
)
   
 YEAC***
   
(783
)
(488
)
   
 SEAC***
   
(84,966
)
(60,718
)
   
 CAASC
   
-
 
(2,550
)
   
 CEA Northwest
   
-
 
(64,895
)
   
 Other related companies
   
(37,765
)
(32,379
)
         
(656,692
)
(671,593
)
 
   
 Except for amounts due to CEA Holding, which are reimbursement in nature, all other amounts due to
   
 related companies are trade in nature, interest free and payable within normal credit terms given by trade
   
 creditors.
           
           
 
(iii)
 Short-term deposits and short-term loans with EAGF, a 25% associate of the Group
     
         
(Unaudited)
 
(Audited)
 
         
30 June
 
31 December
 
         
2008
 
2007
 
       
 
RMB000
 
RMB’000
 
   
Included in “Prepayments, Deposits and Other Receivables”
           
   
are short-term deposits with an average interest rate
           
   
of 0.7% (2007: 0.7%) per annum
   
727,487
 
408,151
 
                 
   
Included in “Borrowings” are short-term loans with
           
   
an average interest rate of 6.1% (2007: 5.3%) per annum
   
135,450
 
260,351
 
                 
 
(iv)
 State-controlled banks and other financial institutions
           
         
(Unaudited)
 
(Audited)
 
         
30 June
 
31 December
 
         
2008
 
2007
 
       
 
RMB000
 
RMB’000
 
   
 Included in “Cash and Cash Equivalents” are
           
   
bank deposits with an average interest rate of 0.7%
           
   
 (2007: 0.7%) per annum
   
3,576,136
 
845,719
 
   
 Included in “Borrowings” are long-term loans with
           
   
an average interest rate of 5.1% (2007: 5.7%) per annum
   
14,648,276
 
13,062,353
 
 
18

 
(c)  
Guarantees by holding company
 
 
Certain unsecured bank borrowings of the Group totaling of RMB1,141 million (2007: RMB1,008 million) were guaranteed by CEA Holding (Note 17). No bank borrowing of the company was guaranteed by CEA Holding as at 30 June 2008 (2007: Nil).
 
 
Notes:
 
*
EAGF is a 25% associate of the Group. SDATC is a 27.16% associate of the Group, CAASC and
   
EAIEC are both 45% associates of the Group.
     
 
**
Wheels & Brakes and STA are 40% and 51% jointly controlled entities of the Group respectively.
     
 
***
These companies are related companies of the Group as they are either, directly or indirectly, controlled
by, under the joint control or significant influence of CEA Holding.
 
21.  
Seasonality
 
 
The civil aviation industry is subject to seasonal fluctuations, with peak demand during the holiday season in the second half of the year. As such, the revenues and results of the Group in the first half of the year are generally lower than those in the second half of a year.
 
22.  
Working capital
 
 
The Group’s primary cash requirements have been for additions of and upgrades to aircraft and flight equipment and payments for debt related to such additions and upgrades. The Group finances its working capital requirements through a combination of funds generated from operations and short and long-term bank borrowings.
 
 
The Group generally operates with a working capital deficit. The Directors believe that cash from operations and short and long-term bank borrowings will be sufficient to meet the Group’s operating cash flow needs for the foreseeable future. The Group’s treasury department aims to maintain flexibility in funding by keeping credit lines available. The Directors believe that the Group has obtained sufficient general credit facilities from PRC banks for financing future capital commitments and for working capital purposes.
 
23.  
Contingent liabilities
 
 
In 2005, the family members of certain victims in the aircraft accident (the aircraft was then owned and operated by China Eastern Air Yunnan Company), which occurred in Baotou on 21 November 2004, sued the Company in a U.S. court for compensation.
 
 
On 5 July 2007, pursuant to several conditions with which the Company has complied, the Superior Court of the State of California ordered the action stayed on the grounds of forum non convenience for the purpose of permitting proceedings in the PRC. The plaintiffs filed an appeal of the stay order. On 20 February 2008, the plaintiff filed a motion with the Superior Court of the State of California to lift the stay. The motion was denied by the U.S. court in May 2008. The plaintiffs filed a second motion to lift the stay in July 2008. The case is still pending. The Directors believe that a negative outcome will not have a material adverse effect on the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.
 
24.  
Post balance sheet event
 
 
On 27 June 2008, the Company entered into agreements in relation to the sale and purchase and the leasing- back of three A340 aircraft in finance lease for a period of 72 months. The transaction was completed in July 2008.
 
19

 
SUMMARY OF SELECTED OPERATING DATA
 
   
For the six months ended 30th June
 
   
2008
2007
Change
 
Capacity
       
 ATK (available tonne- kilometres) (millions)
5,752.20
5,743.20
0.16
%
 -
 Domestic routes
2,605.81
2,537.69
2.68
%
 -
 International routes
2,796.65
2,827.15
-1.08
%
 -
 Hong Kong routes
349.74
378.37
-7.57
%
 ASK (available seat- kilometres) (millions)
37,348.73
37,110.65
0.64
%
 -
 Domestic routes
22,088.44
21,906.93
0.83
%
 -
 International routes
12,900.38
12,592.89
2.44
%
 -
 Hong Kong routes
2,359.91
2,610.82
-9.61
%
 AFTK (available freight tonne- kilometres)
       
 
 (millions)
2,390.81
2,403.24
-0.52
%
 -
 Domestic routes
617.85
566.07
9.15
%
 -
 International routes
1,635.62
1,693.79
-3.43
%
 -
 Hong Kong routes
137.35
143.40
-4.22
%
 Hours flown (thousands)
368.08
362.35
1.58
%
         
Traffic
       
 RTK (revenue tonne- kilometres) (millions)
3,613.15
3,538.69
2.10
%
 -
 Domestic routes
1,787.56
1,733.47
3.12
%
 -
 International routes
1,632.85
1,605.58
1.70
%
 -
 Hong Kong routes
192.74
199.64
-3.46
%
 RPK (revenue passenger- kilometres)
       
 
 (millions)
26,558.20
26,513.82
0.17
%
 -
 Domestic routes
16,628.64
16,317.31
1.91
%
 -
 International routes
8,389.29
8,582.40
-2.25
%
 -
 Hong Kong routes
1,540.27
1,614.12
-4.58
%
 RFTK (revenue freight tonne- kilometres)
       
 
 (millions)
1,241.07
1,171.92
5.90
%
 -
 Domestic routes
300.63
274.80
9.40
%
 -
 International routes
884.75
841.17
5.18
%
 -
 Hong Kong routes
55.69
55.96
-0.48
%
 Number of passengers carried (thousands)
18,111.84
18,332.12
-1.20
%
 -
 Domestic routes
14,410.16
14,472.93
-0.43
%
 -
 International routes
2,620.30
2,715.84
-3.52
%
 -
 Hong Kong routes
1,081.39
1,143.36
-5.42
%
 Weight of freights carried (kg) (millions)
449.97
422.80
6.43
%
 -
 Domestic routes
228.53
209.50
9.08
%
 -
 International routes
183.40
175.39
4.57
%
 -
 Hong Kong routes
38.05
37.90
0.40
%
 
20

 
   
For the six months ended 30th June
 
   
2008
2007
Change
 
Load factor
       
 Overall load factor (%)
62.81
61.62
1.19
 
 -
 Domestic routes
68.60
68.31
0.29
 
 -
 International routes
58.39
56.79
1.60
 
 -
 Hong Kong routes
55.11
52.76
2.35
 
 Passenger load factor (%)
71.11
71.45
-0.34
 
 -
 Domestic routes
75.28
74.48
0.80
 
 -
 International routes
65.03
68.15
-3.12
 
 -
 Hong Kong routes
65.27
61.82
3.45
 
 Freight load factor (%)
51.91
48.76
3.15
 
 -
 Domestic routes
48.66
48.55
0.11
 
 -
 International routes
54.09
49.66
4.43
 
 -
 Hong Kong routes
40.55
39.02
1.53
 
 Break- even load factor (%)
71.75
67.05
4.70
 
         
Yield and costs
       
 Revenue tonne- kilometers yield (RMB)
5.31
5.16
2.91
%
 -
 Domestic routes
5.80
5.75
0.87
%
 -
 International routes
4.64
4.33
7.16
%
 -
 Hong Kong routes
6.46
6.69
-3.44
%
 Passenger- kilometers yield (RMB)
0.62
0.60
3.33
%
 -
 Domestic routes
0.60
0.60
0.00
%
 -
 International routes
0.65
0.59
10.17
%
 -
 Hong Kong routes
0.65
0.67
-2.99
%
 Freight tonne- kilometers yield (RMB)
2.23
2.06
8.25
%
 -
 Domestic routes
1.24
0.96
29.17
%
 -
 International routes
2.43
2.26
7.52
%
 -
 Hong Kong routes
4.47
4.47
0.00
%
 Available tonne-kilometers unit cost (RMB)
3.81
3.46
10.12
%
 
21

 
MANAGEMENT DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS

Review of operations
As at 30 June 2008, the Group operated a total of 398 routes, of which 293 were domestic routes, 16 were Hong Kong routes (including 1 cargo route), and 89 were international routes (including 14 international cargo routes). The Group operated approximately 5,922 scheduled flights per week, serving a total of 138 domestic and foreign cities. At present, the Group owns or operates a total of 225 aircraft, including 199 passenger jet aircraft, each with a capacity of over 100 seats, 15 passenger jet aircraft each, with a capacity of 50 seats and 11 jet freighters.

During the first half of 2008, the global economy slowed down further. The outbreak of the U.S. sub-prime mortgage crisis has triggered continuous volatility in international financial markets, while the ever increasing prices of primary commodities in international markets have added pressure on global inflation. Under the continuing macroeconomic adjustment policy, China’s national economy has, in general, maintained a steady and relatively rapid growth momentum despite the difficulties caused by a series of catastrophic natural disasters. In this complicated and ever-changing economic environment, the trend of growth of China’s air transport market has markedly slowed. Though the exchange rate of Renminbi against the US dollar continued to appreciate, which contributed to the improvement of the Group’s results, the price of international crude oil and aviation fuel has experienced extended high-level fluctuations, which have resulted in prolonged high fuel costs and brought about substantial pressure on the air transport industry. Consequently, the results of the Group have also been significantly affected.

For the first half of the year, the Group’s flights accounted for 36.9% and 36.1% of all flights at Hongqiao Airport and Pudong Airport, respectively.

In terms of passenger traffic, the Group successfully introduced several new international routes for scheduled flights, including “Sanya-Moscow” and “Shijiazhuang-Seoul”, thus further improving the Group’s international route network. By optimizing our airline network, reasonably allocating capacity and proactively developing foreign cooperation, the Group was able to improve its overall efficiency. The Group continued to improve its online flight ticketing service and the selling process of international electronic passenger tickets through the establishment of three systematic networks, namely the commercial website, call centers and high-end membership, in order to further develop its e-commerce services. For the first half of the year, the daily average utilisation rate of the Group’s aircraft was 9.1 hours.

In terms of freight transport, the Group increased the consolidation of its one-stop freight transport management system and market developing efforts, continued to take advantage of Shanghai as an aviation hub by optimizing its product portfolio, and developed the high margin international freight transport market and the transit connecting freight market by leveraging the Group’s route network resources in order to improve freight revenues.
In terms of services, the Group launched the gourmet culture week, namely (Air Gourmet Culture Year of CEA)", and the (Welcome the Olympic Games with Gold Medal Services)" campaign, so as to promote branded service and create a new perspective for branded services. In terms of on-time flight rate, we lead the industry due to enhanced on-site coordination and monitoring, regular analysis, and performance evaluation as well as through proactively seeking external support.
 

22


As at 30 June 2008, the total traffic volume of the Group was 3,613 million tonne-kilometres, representing an increase of 2.10% from the same period last year, while traffic revenues amounted to RMB19,197 million, representing an increase of 5.13% from the same period last year.

During the first half of 2008, passenger traffic volume was 26,558 million passenger kilometres, representing an increase of 0.17% from the same period last year. Compared to the same period last year, passenger revenues increased by 3.67% to RMB16,429 million, accounting for 85.58% of the Group’s transportation revenues.

Passenger traffic volume on domestic routes was 16,629 million passenger-kilometres, representing an increase of 1.91% from the same period last year. Compared to the same period last year, the passenger load factor increased by 0.80 percentage points to 75.28% and the domestic passenger revenues increased by 3.01% to RMB10,002 million, accounting for 60.88% of total passenger revenues. Average yield per passenger-kilometre amounted to RMB0.60 during the reporting period, which remained unchanged from the same period last year.

Passenger traffic volume on international routes was 8,389 million passenger-kilometres, representing a decrease of 2.25% from the same period last year. Compared to the same period last year, the passenger load factor decreased by 3.12 percentage points to 65.03% and the revenues increased by 7.47% to RMB5,431 million, accounting for 33.06% of total passenger revenues. Average yield per passenger-kilometre amounted to RMB0.65 during the period, representing an increase of 10.17% compared to the same period last year.

Passenger traffic volume on Hong Kong routes was 1,540 million passenger-kilometres, representing a decrease of 4.58% from the same period last year. Compared to the same period last year, the passenger load factor increased by 3.45 percentage points to 65.27% and the revenues decreased by 8.10% to RMB996 million, accounting for 6.06% of total passenger revenues. Average yield per passenger-kilometre amounted to RMB0.65 during the reporting period, representing a decrease of 2.99% compared to the same period last year.

During the first half of 2008, cargo traffic volume increased by 5.90% to 1,241 million tonne- kilometres compared to the same period last year. The Group’s freight revenues increased by 14.72% to RMB2,768 million for the first half of this year, accounting for 14.42% of the Group’s transportation revenues. Average yield per freight tonne-kilometre of cargo and mail amounted to RMB2.23, representing an increase of 8.25% compared to the same period last year.

Total operating costs of the Group for the first half of 2008 increased by 10.53% to RMB21,940 million compared to the same period last year. The increase was primarily due to the persistently high price of international aviation fuel.

During the first half of 2008, the price of international aviation fuel continued to fluctuate at a high level and on several occasions set new highs, placing significant pressure on the Group’s operations. In addition, the fleet expansion correspondingly increased aircraft fuel consumption. During the first half of 2008, the Group’s expenditure on aircraft fuel was RMB8,567 million, representing an increase of 22.84% compared to the same period last year. The Group continued to make use of financial derivatives to assist in managing its risks related to aircraft fuel prices.

Take-off and landing charges were RMB2,654 million, representing an increase of 4.74% from the same period last year.
 
23

 
Depreciation and amortisation were RMB2,314 million, representing an increase of 6.87% compared to the same period last year.
 
Wages, salaries and benefits expenses were RMB2,029 million, representing an increase of 12.98% compared to the same period last year.
 
Aircraft maintenance expenses decreased by 11.91% to RMB1,082 million compared to the same period last year.
 
In-flight food and beverages expenses increased by 16.32% to RMB661 million compared to the same period last year.
 
Aircraft operating lease rentals were RMB1,362 million, representing a decrease of 6.21% compared to the same period last year.
 
Other operating lease rentals were RMB168 million, representing an increase of 42.01% compared to the same period last year.
 
Selling and marketing expenses increased by 7.16% to RMB802 million compared to the same period last year.
 
Civil aviation infrastructure levies paid to the General Administration of Civil Aviation of China decreased by 2.32% to RMB373 million compared to the same period last year.
 
Ground services and other charges decreased by 6.80% to RMB79 million compared to the same period last year.
 
Office, administrative and other expenses increased by 2.83% to RMB1,848 million compared to the same period last year.
 
Other operating income increased by 0.64% to RMB551 million compared to the same period last year.
 
Finance income was RMB1,947 million, representing an increase of 150.26% compared to the same period last year, which primarily relates to the translation of liabilities denominated in U.S. dollar. Finance costs were RMB1,065 million, representing an increase of 18.46% compared to the same period last year. The increase was primarily attributable to the increase of bank loan interest expense of RMB115 million.
 
During the six months ended 30 June 2008, the Group’s consolidated loss attributable to equity holders of the Company as calculated under the IFRS were RMB212 million and the loss per share attributable to equity holders were RMB0.04.

24

 
Liquidity and capital resources
 
The Group finances its working capital requirements through business operations and short-term bank loans. As at 30 June 2008, the Group had cash and cash equivalents of RMB4,618 million, most of which were denominated in Renminbi. Net cash inflow generated by the Group’s operating activities in the first half of 2008 was RMB1,083 million, representing a decrease of 57.83% compared to the same period last year.
 
The Group’s primary cash requirements in the first half of 2008 were for acquisitions of, and improvements in, aircraft and flight equipment and for payment of related indebtedness. The Group’s net cash outflow in investment activities was RMB3,046 million in the first half of 2008.
 
Net cash inflow generated from financing activities was RMB4,961 million, primarily due to long- term and short-term bank loans.
 
The Group generally operates with net current liabilities. As at 30 June 2008, the Group’s current liabilities exceeded its current assets by RMB30,601 million, and the ratio of long-term loans to equity was 2.31:1. For years, the Group has arranged, and believes it will be able to continue to arrange, short-term loans through domestic banks or foreign invested banks in China to meet its working capital requirements.
 
Pledges on assets and contingent liabilities
 
The Group generally finances its purchases of aircraft through leases secured by its assets. As at 30 June 2008, the total value of the Group’s mortgaged assets amounted to RMB9,809 million, representing a decrease of 1.15% from RMB9,923 million as at the end of 2007.
 
Employees
 
As at 30 June 2008, the Group had about 42,556 employees, the majority of whom are located in China. The wages of the Group’s employees generally consist of basic salaries and bonuses. During the first half of 2008, the Group was not involved in any major labour disputes with its employees, nor has it ever experienced a substantial reduction in the number of employees, nor has the Group encountered any difficulty in recruiting new employees.

Outlook for the second half of 2008
 
The Group would like to remind readers of this announcement that the Group’s 2008 interim results announcement contains certain forward-looking statements, such as descriptions of the Group’s work plans for the second half of the year and beyond, and forward-looking statements on the global and domestic economies and aviation markets. Such forward-looking statements are subject to numerous uncertainties and risks, and actual events may be materially different from those indicated in the Group’s forward-looking statements.
 
25

 
For the second half of 2008, we will be facing an extremely complicated operating environment. With increasing uncertainties in the global economy, the Chinese economy will probably experience a slowdown under the macroeconomic adjustment policy. As a result, demand in the air transport market is likely to experience a downturn, while pressure from ever-increasing costs is likely to pose a threat to the development of the air transport industry. However, there has been a significant improvement in the relationship between Mainland China and Taiwan, which will facilitate the development of economic, tourism and cultural exchange between the two sides. Moreover, other favourable factors, such as the Beijing Olympic Games and the relaxing of travel restrictions on Chinese tourists visiting the U.S., will probably bring about new opportunities for the development of the aviation industry. To expand the size of the Group, increase its competitiveness and steadily increase its market share, adjust and optimize its route network, and create more attractive services and products to meet market demand, the Group will continue to increase its fleet by introducing three A330-300, four A321, seven A320, one B737-700 and one B737-800 passenger aircraft. It is anticipated that these new aircraft will be delivered and put into operation in the second half of 2008.
 
In view of the current market operating environment and the Group’s actual situation, the Group intends to undertake specific measures in the second half of 2008 as follows:

1.  
In terms of safety, the Group will implement rules and standards so as to ensure steady and safe operation.
 
2.  
In terms of marketing for passenger traffic, we will bring about creative ideas, ensure reasonable allocation of our Group’s resources, enhance our marketing ability, improve the management of our transit routes, take full advantage of our network, and develop in full force our transit connecting flights business. We will seize the favourable opportunities brought about by the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games, the newly commenced weekend direct charter flights between Mainland China and Taiwan, the gradual lifting of travel restrictions on Chinese tourists visiting the U.S., and commit stronger efforts to marketing, expand our market share and maximize our income. We will continue to optimize our route network, enhance aircraft utilization rates and fully explore any potential for cost-efficiency. We will promote the development of e-commerce, make the best use of the resources of our customer relations management system, expand the market coverage of the “95808” customer service hotline and realize system integration and resources sharing so that all of our international routes are covered by our electronic ticketing system.
 
3.  
In terms of freight transport, we will continue to implement and develop the “one-stop” concept and rationalize internal operating procedures. We will update our selling concept, innovate selling strategies, explore growth potential of income and develop new profit growth areas. By optimizing our route network, strengthening freight combined transport and transit, standardizing freight transport prices, improving management and enhancing examination methods, we will gradually improve the level of freight income.
 
4.  
We will control our costs in a stringent manner, vigorously implement our fuel saving plan and continue to implement centralized merchandising so as to reduce costs and expenditures. We will reduce our investment scale, eliminate non-productive investments, enhance corporate risk management, extend financing and fund-raising channels and reduce finance costs.
 
5.  
We will develop our concept of service, enrich the quality of our services and improve our brand image. We will increase our investment in hardware and infrastructure, enhance the standards for food and beverages, improve the comfort of our VIP rooms and update the in-flight entertainment systems to enhance the overall comfort of flight. We will reward frequent flyers with more distinguished services, and provide personalized and customized service products for our gold and silver card members. We will continue to improve our flight on-time rate. We will enrich and improve the contents of our brand “culture week” and provide our services in a creative manner.
 
26


FLEET PLANNING
As at 30 June 2008, the details of our aircraft on order, which are scheduled and expected to be delivered and put into service, are as follows:

Year of delivery
 Type of aircraft
Number of aircraft
     
Second half of 2008
 A330-300
3
 
 A321
4
 
 A320
7
 
 B737-700
1
 
 B737-800
1
2009
 A320
10
 
 B737-700
7
 
 B737-800
3
 
 B787
4
2010
 A320
14
 
 B737-700
4
 
 B737-800
2
MATERIAL MATTERS
   

1.  
Dividends
 
 
The Board does not recommend payment of any interim dividend for the six months ended 30 June 2008.
 
2.  
Share capital structure

             
Approximate
             
percentage
           
Total number
of shareholding
           
of Shares
(%)
   
1
.
A shares
   
       
(a)
Listed shares with trading moratorium
2,904,000,000
59.67
       
(b)
Listed shares without trading moratorium
396,000,000
8.13
   
2
.
H shares
1,566,950,000
32.20
   
3
.
Total number of shares
4,866,950,000
100.00
 
3.  
Purchase, sale or redemption of securities
 
 
During the six months ended 30 June 2008, neither the Company nor any of its subsidiaries had purchased, sold or redeemed any of its issued securities (“securities” having the meaning ascribed thereto under Article 1 of Appendix 16 to the Rules Governing the Listing of Securities on The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited (the “Listing Rules”)), without taking into account any issue of new securities.
 
27

 
4.  
Corporate governance practices
 
 
The Board has reviewed the relevant provisions and corporate governance practices under the codes of corporate governance practices adopted by the Company, and took the view that the Company’s corporate governance practices during the six months ended 30 June 2008 met the requirements under the code provisions in the Code on Corporate Governance Practices set out in Appendix 14 to the Listing Rules.
 
5.  
Material litigation and arbitration
 
 
In 2005, the family members of certain victims in the aircraft accident (the aircraft was then owned and operated by China Eastern Air Yunnan Company), which occurred in Baotou on 21 November 2004, sued the Company in a U.S. court for compensation. On 5 July 2007, pursuant to several conditions with which the Company has complied, the Superior Court of the State of California ordered the action stayed on the grounds of forum non conveniens for the purpose of permitting proceedings in the PRC. The plaintiffs filed an appeal of the stay order. On 20 February 2008, the plaintiffs filed a motion with the Superior Court of the State of California to lift the stay. The motion was denied by the U.S. court in May 2008. The plaintiffs filed a second motion to lift the stay in July 2008. The case is still pending. The Directors believe that a negative outcome will not have a material adverse effect on the financial condition and results of operations of the Company. The Company intends to provide updates to the shareholders of the Company regarding the progress of the litigation.
 
 
Save as disclosed above, the Group was not involved in any other material litigation or arbitration during the six months ended 30 June 2008.
 
6.  
Audit Committee
 
 
The Audit Committee has reviewed the accounting principles and methods adopted by the Group with the management of the Company, and has discussed with the Board regarding internal controls and financial reporting issues, including reviewing the unaudited interim consolidated financial information for the six months ended 30 June 2008.
 
 
The Audit Committee has no objection regarding the accounting principles and methods adopted by the Group.
 
7.  
Material Contracts
 
 
On 30 January 2008, the Company entered into an aircraft purchase agreement in Shanghai with Boeing Company to purchase 30 Boeing B737NG series aircraft. Details are set out in the Company’s announcement dated 30 January 2008 and its circular dated 10 April 2008.
 
28

 
8.  
Miscellaneous
 
 
On 9 November 2007, Singapore Airlines Limited and Lentor Investments Ptd. Ltd (an indirectly wholly-owned subsidiary of Temasek Holdings (Private) Limited) entered into an investor subscription agreement with the Company to subscribe for new H shares to be issued by the Company. Simultaneously, China Eastern Air Holding Company (“CEA Holding”) entered into a CEA Holding subscription agreement with the Company to subscribe for new H shares to be issued by the Company. As of 9 August 2008, the conditions precedent of the investor subscription agreement entered into among SIA, Temasek and the Company had not been satisfied, and pursuant to the terms thereof, the agreement was automatically terminated. Accordingly, it follows that the transaction contemplated under the CEA Holding subscription agreement between CEA Holding and the Company cannot proceed to completion, and the shareholders agreement entered into among CEA Holding, SIA and Temasek is not effective. For information about this project, please refer to the announcements dated 2 September 2007, 9 November 2007, 8 January 2008, 21 January 2008, 26 February 2008 and 9 August 2008 and published by the Company in Hong Kong.
 
     
 
By order of the Board
 
China Eastern Airlines Corporation Limited
Li Fenghua
Chairman
 
Shanghai, the People’s Republic of China
26 August 2008
 
As at the date of this announcement, the directors of the Company are:

Li Fenghua
 (Chairman, Non-executive Director)
Li Jun
 (Vice Chairman, Non-executive Director)
Cao Jianxiong
 (President, Executive Director)
Luo Chaogeng
 (Non-executive Director)
Luo Zhuping
 (Executive Director)
Hu Honggao
 (Independent non-executive Director)
Peter Lok
 (Independent non-executive Director)
Wu Baiwang
 (Independent non-executive Director)
Zhou Ruijin
 (Independent non-executive Director)
Xie Rong
 (Independent non-executive Director)
 
29