CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES CORPORATION LIMITED
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SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, DC 20549
__________________________________

FORM 20-F

     
o
  REGISTRATION STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(b) OR 12(g) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
 
  OR
þ
  ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
 
  For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2004
 
  OR
o
  TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
 
  For the transition period from _______________ to _______________

     
  Commission file number 1-14550  
     
 
  (CHINESE NAME)  
       (Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Its Charter)       
     
     
China Eastern Airlines Corporation Limited
(Translation of Registrant’s Name Into English)
  The People’s Republic of China
(Jurisdiction of Incorporation or Organization)
     
     
  2550 Hong Qiao Road
Hong Qiao International Airport
Shanghai 200335
The People’s Republic of China
(8621) 6268-6268
(Address and Telephone Number of Principal Executive Offices)
 
     

Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

     
 
Title of Each Class
  Name of Each Exchange
on Which Registered
     
American Depositary Shares
Ordinary H Shares, par value RMB1.00 per share
  The New York Stock Exchange
The New York Stock Exchange*
________________________

* Not for trading, but only in connection with the registration of American Depositary Shares. The Ordinary H
Shares are also listed and traded on The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited.

 
Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:
None
(Title of Class)
Securities for which there is a reporting obligation pursuant to Section 15(d) of the Act:
None
(Title of Class)
Indicate the number of outstanding shares of each of the issuer’s classes of capital or common stock as of the close of the period covered by the annual report.

As of December 31, 2004, 3,300,000,000 Ordinary Domestic Shares, par value RMB1.00 per share, were issued and outstanding, and 1,566,950,000 Ordinary H Shares par value RMB1.00 per share, were issued and outstanding. H Shares are Ordinary Shares of the Company listed on The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited.

     Indicate by check mark whether the registrant: (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes þ No o

     Indicate by check mark which financial statement item the registrant has elected to follow. Item 17 o Item 18 þ



 


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China Eastern Airlines Corporation Limited

             
        Page  
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION AND EXCHANGE RATES     1  
CAUTIONARY STATEMENT WITH RESPECT TO FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS     1  
GLOSSARY OF TECHNICAL TERMS     3  
             
PART I
       
             
Item 1.       4  
Item 2.       4  
Item 3.       4  
Item 4.       11  
Item 5.       33  
Item 6.       47  
Item 7.       56  
Item 8.       60  
Item 9.       61  
Item 10.       62  
Item 11.       70  
Item 12.       71  
             
PART II
       
             
Item 13.       71  
Item 14.       71  
Item 15.       73  
Item 16A.       74  
Item 16B.       74  
Item 16C.       74  
Item 16D.       74  
Item 16E.       75  
             
PART III
       
             
Item 17.       75  
Item 18.       75  
Item 19.       75  
 EX-4.9 AIRCRAFT PURCHASE AGREEMENT DATED OCTOBER 9, 2004 BETWEEN OUR COMPANY AND AIRBUS SAS
 EX-4.10 AMENDMENT NO.9 TO A320 PURCHASE AGREEMENT
 EX-4.11 ASSETS TRANSFER AGREEMENT DATED MAY 12, 2005
 EX-8.1 LIST OF SUBSIDIARIES
 EX-12.1 CERT OF PRESIDENT PURSUANT TO RULE 13a-14(a)
 EX-12.2 CERT OF CFO PURSUANT TO RULE 13a-14(a)
 EX-13.1 CERT OF PRESIDENT PURSUANT TO RULE 13a-14(b)
 EX-13.2 CERTIFICATION OF CFO PURSUANT TO RULE 13a-14(b)

 


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SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION AND EXCHANGE RATES

     Unless otherwise specified, all references in this annual report to “U.S. dollars”, “dollars” or “US$” are to United States dollars; all references to “HK dollars” or “HK$” are to Hong Kong dollars; all references to “Renminbi” or “RMB” are to Renminbi, the legal tender currency of The People’s Republic of China, or China or the PRC.

     In this annual report, “we”, “us”, “our”, “our company” or “China Eastern” means China Eastern Airlines Corporation Limited, a company limited by shares incorporated under the laws of China on April 14, 1995, and, unless the context otherwise requires, its subsidiaries, or, in respect of references to any time prior to the incorporation of China Eastern Airlines Corporation Limited, the core airline business carried on by its predecessor, China Eastern Airlines, which was assumed by China Eastern Airlines Corporation Limited pursuant to the restructuring described in this annual report. “CEA Holding” means our parent, China Eastern Air Holding Company, which was established on October 11, 2002 as a result of the merger of our former controlling shareholder, Eastern Air Group Company, or EA Group, with China Northwest Airlines Company and Yunnan Airlines Company.

     For purpose of this annual report, references to China or the PRC do not include the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of China, or Hong Kong, the Macau Special Administrative Region of China, or Macau, or Taiwan. References to “Chinese” should be interpreted accordingly.

CAUTIONARY STATEMENT WITH RESPECT TO FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

     This annual report contains certain forward-looking statements that are, by their nature, subject to significant risks and uncertainties. These forward-looking statements include, without limitation, statements relating to:

    our fleet development plans, including, without limitation, related financing, schedule, intended use and planned disposition;
 
    the planned expansion of our cargo operations;
 
    the impact of changes in the policies of the Civil Aviation Administration of China, or the CAAC, regarding route rights;
 
    the impact of the CAAC policies regarding the restructuring of the airline industry in China;
 
    our expansion plans, including acquisition of other airlines;
 
    our marketing plans, including the establishment of additional sales offices;
 
    our plan to add new pilots; and
 
    the impact of unusual events on our business and operations.

     The words “anticipate”, “plan”, “believe”, “estimate”, “expect”, “intend” and similar expressions, as they relate to our company or its management, are intended to identify some of these forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements reflect our current view with respect to future events. Actual events or results may differ materially from information contained in these forward-looking statements as a result of a number of factors, including, without limitation:

 


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    any changes in regulatory policies of the CAAC;
 
    the effects of competition on the demand for and price of our services;
 
    the availability of qualified flight personnel and airport facilities;
 
    any significant depreciation of Renminbi or Hong Kong dollars against U.S. dollars, Japanese yen or Euro, the currencies in which the majority of our borrowings are denominated;
 
    the availability and cost of the aviation fuel;
 
    changes in political, economic, legal and social conditions in China;
 
    the fluctuation of interest rates; and
 
    our ability to obtain adequate financing, including any required external debt and acceptable bank guarantees.

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GLOSSARY OF TECHNICAL TERMS

     
Capacity measurements
   
ATK (available tonne kilometers)
  the number of tonnes of capacity available for the carriage of revenue load (passengers and cargo) multiplied by the distance flown
 
   
ASK (available seat kilometers)
  the number of seats made available for sale multiplied by the distance flown
 
   
AFTK (available freight tonne-kilometers)
   
the number of tonnes of capacity available for the carriage of cargo and mail multiplied by the distance flown
 
   
Traffic measurements
   
revenue passenger-kilometers or RPK
  the number of passengers carried multiplied by the distance flown
 
   
revenue freight tonne-kilometers or RFTK
  cargo and mail load in tonnes multiplied by the distance flown
 
   
revenue passenger tonne-kilometers or RPTK
  passenger load in tonnes multiplied by the distance flown
 
   
revenue tonne-kilometers or RTK
  load (passenger and cargo) in tonnes multiplied by the distance flown
 
   
Load factors
   
overall load factor
  tonne-kilometers expressed as a percentage of ATK
 
   
passenger load factor
  passenger-kilometers expressed as a percentage of ASK
 
   
break-even load factor
  the load factor required to equate traffic revenue with our operating costs assuming that our total operating surplus is attributable to scheduled traffic operations
 
   
Yield and cost measurements
   
passenger yield (revenue per passenger-kilometer)
  revenue from passenger operations divided by passenger-kilometers
 
   
cargo yield (revenue per cargo tonne-kilometer)
  revenue from cargo operations divided by cargo tonne-kilometers
 
   
average yield (revenue per total tonne-kilometer)
  revenue from airline operations divided by tonne-kilometers
 
   
unit cost
  operating expenses divided by ATK
 
   
tonne
  a metric ton, equivalent to 2,204.6 lbs

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PART I

Item 1.  Identity of Directors, Senior Management and Advisers.

     Not applicable.

Item 2.  Offer Statistics and Expected Timetable.

     Not applicable.

Item 3.  Key Information.

A.  Selected Financial Data

     The selected income statement data for the years ended December 31, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003 and 2004 and the selected balance sheet data as of December 31, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003 and 2004 have been derived from our audited consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with the International Financial Reporting Standards, or IFRS, and audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers, an independent registered public accounting firm in Hong Kong. PricewaterhouseCoopers’ reports in respect of the income statements for the years ended December 31, 2002, 2003 and 2004 and the balance sheets as of December 31, 2003 and 2004 appear on page F-1 of this annual report. You should read Note 39 to our audited consolidated financial statements for a discussion of certain differences between IFRS and the generally accepted accounting principles in the United States, or U.S. GAAP, as they relate to our company, and a reconciliation to U.S. GAAP of profit attributable to shareholders for the years ended December 31, 2002, 2003 and 2004, and owners’ equity as of December 31, 2002, 2003 and 2004.

                                                 
    Year Ended December 31,  
    2000     2001     2002     2003(1)     2004     2004  
    RMB     RMB     RMB     RMB     RMB     US$  
    (millions, except per share or per ADS information)  
Income Statement Data:
                                               
IFRS:
                                               
Revenues
    11,220.06       12,152.81       13,078.99       14,277.16       21,038.78       2,541.99  
Other operating income
    223.11       127.61       226.37       60.89       154.42       18.66  
Operating expenses
    (10,444.21 )     (11,283.32 )     (12,241.90 )     (14,116.59 )     (19,714.02 )     (2,381.93 )
Operating profit
    998.96       997.10       1,063.47       221.46       1,479.18       178.72  
Non-operating income
                            133.03       16.07  
Interest income (expense), net
    (814.49 )     (814.38 )     (768.91 )     (782,78 )     (762.69 )     (92.15 )
Profit (loss) before taxation
    304.40       313.58       262.89       (589.83 )     845.41       102.15  
Profit (loss) attributable to shareholders
    175.53       541.71       86.37       (949.82 )     514.08       62.11  
Basic and fully diluted earnings (loss) per share(2)
    0.04       0.11       0.02       (0.20 )     0.11       0.01  
Basic and fully diluted earnings (loss) per ADS
    3.61       11.13       1.77       (19.52 )     10.56       1.28  
U.S. GAAP:
                                               
Profit (loss) attributable to shareholders
    734.36       474.47       247.74       (898.25 )     454.68       54.94  
Basic and fully diluted earnings (loss) per share(2)
    0.15       0.10       0.05       (0.19 )     0.09       0.01  
Basic and fully diluted earnings (loss) per ADS
    15.09       9.75       5.09       (18.46 )     9.34       1.13  
___________________________________________________________
 
(1)   In 2003, certain income and expenses have been reclassified as required by IFRS. This reclassification has no effect on the profit (loss) attributable to shareholders.
(2)   The calculation of earnings (loss) per share is based on the consolidated profit (loss) attributable to shareholders and 4,866,950,000 shares in issue.

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    2000     2001     2002     2003     2004     2004  
    RMB     RMB     RMB     RMB     RMB     US$  
    (millions)  
Balance Sheet Data:
                                               
IFRS:
                                               
Cash and cash equivalents
    1,422.89       1,330.98       1,944.52       1,582.78       2,114.46       255.48  
Working capital (deficiency)
    (858.32 )     (3,162.91 )     (7,436.75 )     (9,941.35 )     (12,502.00 )     (1,510.54 )
Non-current assets
    24,725.46       25,201.24       28,150.78       33,175.44       37,218.52       4,496.89  
Total assets
    28,652.00       28,610.95       32,761.58       38,007.11       42,427.79       5,126.30  
Long-term loans, including current portion
    4,804.19       5,300.57       6,494.63       11,222.92       10,736.26       1,297.20  
Capital lease obligations, including current portion
    11,308.18       9,871.35       8,183.97       7,100.89       8,662.29       1,046.61  
Owner’s equity
    6,870.53       7,320.10       7,379.10       6,382.15       6,882.24       831.54  
U.S. GAAP:
                                               
Total assets
    28,077.50       28,297.00       32,512.00       37,789.47       42,274.82       5,107.81  
Owner’s equity
    6,658.30       7,040.83       7,157.61       6,209.71       6,763.48       817.19  

Exchange Rate Information

     This annual report contains translations of certain amounts into U.S. dollars solely for your convenience. Except where otherwise specified, translations of amounts from Renminbi to U.S. dollars have been made at the noon buying rate, or the Noon Buying Rate, in New York City for cable transfers in foreign currencies as certified for customs purposes by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York on December 31, 2004 of US$1.00 = RMB8.2765. You should not construe the translations as representations that the Renminbi amounts could have been, or could be, converted into U.S. dollars at that rate or at any other rate.

     The noon buying rate in New York City for cable transfers as certified for customs purposes by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York was RMB8.2765 = US$1.00, on June 20, 2005. The following tables set forth certain information concerning exchange rates between Renminbi and U.S. dollars for the periods indicated:

                                 
    Average(1) Noon Buying Rate(2)             Noon Buying Rate
Period           Period   High     Low
    (RMB per US$)         (RMB per US$)
2004
    8.2768     December 2004          8.2767       8.2765  
2003
    8.2772     January 2005     8.2765       8.2765  
2002
    8.2772     February 2005     8.2765       8.2765  
2001
    8.2772     March 2005     8.2765       8.2765  
2000
    8.2784     April 2005     8.2765       8.2765  
 
          May 2005     8.2765       8.2765  
___________________________________________________________
 
(1)   Determined by averaging the rates on the last business day of each month during the relevant period.
(2)   Noon Buying Rate in New York City for cable transfers payable in foreign currencies as certified for customs purpose by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York.

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Selected Operating Data

     The following table sets forth certain operating data of our company for the five years ended December 31, 2004, which have been derived from financial information prepared in accordance with IFRS and other data provided by us and are not audited. All references in this annual report to our cargo operations, cargo statistics or cargo revenues include figures for cargo and mail.

                                         
    Year Ended December 31,  
    2000     2001     2002     2003     2004  
Selected Airline Operating Data:
                                       
Capacity:
                                       
ATK (millions)
    3,646.3       4,188.2       4,366.6       4,774.5       7,071.2  
ASK (millions)
    22,596.2       25,813.5       27,962.5       29,780.0       41,599.1  
AFTK (millions)
    1,612.6       1,865.0       1,850.0       2,094.3       3,327.3  
Traffic:
                                       
Revenue passenger-kilometers (millions)
    14,101.6       15,911.4       18,206.4       18,002.7       27,580.8  
Revenue tonne-kilometers (millions)
    2,165.3       2,373.2       2,652.2       2,907.7       4,340.7  
Revenue passenger tonne-kilometers (millions)
    1,261.0       1,423.4       1,629.2       1,611.1       2,466.0  
Revenue freight tonne-kilometers (millions)
    904.3       949.8       1,023.0       1,296.6       1,874.7  
Kilometers flown (millions)
    121.2       147.2       158.8       176.5       242.8  
Hours flown (thousands)
    180.8       220.4       234.6       259.4       360.4  
Number of passengers carried (thousands)
    9,113.3       10,371.4       11,533.1       12,040.2       17,711.0  
Weight of cargo carried (millions of kilograms)
    286.4       302.0       344.7       459.8       663.6  
Average distance flown (kilometers per passenger)
    1,547.8       1,534.2       1,578.6       1,495.2       1,557.3  
Load Factor:
                                       
Overall load factor (%)
    59.4       56.7       60.7       60.9       61.4  
Passenger load factor (%)
    62.4       61.6       65.1       60.5       66.3  
Break-even load factor (based on ATK) (%)
    57.7       54.7       59.9       63.6       61.6  
Yield and Cost Statistics (RMB):
                                       
Passenger yield (passenger revenue/passenger-kilometers)
    0.61       0.60       0.55       0.57       0.56  
Cargo yield (cargo revenue/cargo tonne-kilometers)
    2.35       2.20       2.39       2.46       2.36  
Average yield (passenger and cargo revenue/tonne-kilometers)
    4.97       4.92       4.71       4.62       4.56  
Unit cost (operating expenses/ATK)
    2.87       2.69       2.87       2.94       2.81  

B.  Capitalization and Indebtedness

     Not applicable.

C.  Reasons for the Offer and Use of Proceeds

     Not applicable.

D.  Risk Factors

     An investment in our American Depositary Shares, or ADSs, or H shares involves a number of risks. An investment in our company also involves special concerns and significant risks not usually involved with an investment in the equity securities of a United States company. You should carefully consider the following information about these risks, together with the other information in this annual report.

     Government regulation

     The Chinese civil aviation industry is subject to a high degree of regulation by the CAAC. Regulatory policies issued or implemented by the CAAC encompass virtually every aspect of airline operations, including, among others:

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    route allocation;
 
    pricing of the domestic airfare;
 
    the administration of air traffic control systems and certain airports; and
 
    aircraft registration and aircraft airworthiness certification.

     As a result, we may face significant constraints on our flexibility and ability to expand our business operations or to maximize our profitability.

     Government ownership and control of our company

     Most of the airline companies in China are currently 100% or majority owned either by the central government of China or by provincial or municipal governments in China. CEA Holding currently holds approximately 61.64% of our company’s equity interest on behalf of the Chinese government. As a result, CEA Holding will be able to elect our entire board of directors and otherwise be able to control us. CEA Holding will also have sufficient voting control to effect transactions without the concurrence of our minority shareholders. The interests of the Chinese government as the ultimate controlling person of our company and other Chinese airlines could conflict with the interests of our minority shareholders. Although the CAAC currently has a policy of equal treatment for all Chinese airlines, we cannot assure you that the CAAC will not favor other Chinese airlines.

     Competition

     We face intense competition in each of the domestic, Hong Kong regional and international markets we serve. As a result, we have, from time to time, lowered our airfares for certain of our routes and may continue to do so in the future in order to maintain passenger traffic and compete with certain smaller domestic airline companies that operate with costs lower than our company or pursue a strategy of offering lower fares. In addition, many of our competitors have significantly longer operating history, greater name recognition, more resources and larger sales networks than our company or participate in reservation systems that are more convenient than ours. The public’s perception of the safety records of Chinese airlines also adversely affects our ability to compete against our international competitors. Increased competition may have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.

     Insurance coverage and cost

     As a result of the September 11, 2001 events, aviation insurers have significantly reduced the maximum amount of insurance coverage available to commercial air carriers for liability to persons other than employees or passengers for claims resulting from acts of terrorism, war or similar events, or war-risk coverage. At the same time, they significantly increased the premiums for such coverage as well as for aviation insurance in general. Our company has further extended our insurance coverage purchased prior to the September 11 events to November 30, 2005. However, if the insurance carriers reduce further the amount of insurance coverage available or increase the premium for such coverage when we renew our insurance coverage, our financial condition and results of operations will be adversely affected.

     Direct air link between China’s mainland and Taiwan

     Currently, our operations on the Hong Kong regional routes benefit from traffic between Hong Kong and mainland China

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ultimately originating in Taiwan. During the Lunar Chinese New Year peak travel season in 2003, from late-January to mid-February, the Chinese government allowed special chartered flights between Shanghai and Taiwan for the first time. There were no such direct chartered flights in 2004. In 2005, from late-January to mid-February, airlines from both mainland China and Taiwan (including our company) operated 48 non-stop direct chartered flights between Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou of mainland China and Taipei and Kaohsiung of Taiwan. Although regular direct flights between Taiwan and mainland China are still not permitted, our Hong Kong regional routes may be adversely affected if such regular direct flights are permitted in the future. We cannot assure you that we will obtain sufficient Taiwan-mainland China routes, or that the yields on these routes will be adequate, to offset any adverse effect on our revenues derived from our Hong Kong regional routes.

     Chinese aviation infrastructure limitations and safety

     The rapid increase in air traffic volume in China in recent years has put pressure on many components of the Chinese airline industry, including air traffic control systems, the availability of qualified flight personnel and airport facilities. Our ability to provide safe air transportation depends on the availability of qualified and experienced pilots in China and the improvement of maintenance services, national air traffic control and navigational systems and ground control operations at Chinese airports. If any of these is not available or is inadequate, our ability to provide safe air transportation will be compromised and our financial condition and results of operations will be materially adversely affected.

     Fuel supply and costs

     The availability and cost of the aviation fuel has a significant impact on our financial condition and results of operations. In the past, jet fuel shortages have occurred in China and, on limited occasions, required us to delay or cancel flights. Although jet fuel shortages have not occurred since the end of 1993, we cannot assure you that jet fuel shortages will not occur in the future. As of May 31, 2005, the official domestic fuel price increased 21.9% compared to the price as of May 31, 2004. The international and domestic fuel prices increased significantly in 2004 and may continue to increase in the future. The fuel costs accounted for approximately 27.5% of our operating expenses in 2004. In 2004, our fuel expenses increased 78.3% as a result of increased weighted average domestic and international fuel prices and the expansion of our fleet. In particular, the weighted average domestic and international fuel prices paid by our company in 2004 increased by approximately 24. 5% and 30.6%, respectively. Due to the highly competitive nature of the airline industry, we may be unable to pass on to our customers any increased fuel costs we may encounter in the future. Any jet fuel shortages or any increase in domestic or international jet fuel price may materially adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations.

     Operating leverage

     The airline industry is characterized by a high degree of operating leverage. Due to high fixed costs, including payments made in connection with aircraft leases, the expenses relating to the operation of any given flight do not vary proportionately with the number of passengers carried, while revenues generated from a particular flight are directly related to the number of passengers carried and the fare structure of the flight. Accordingly, a decrease in revenues may result in a proportionately higher decrease in profits.

     Liquidity

     We have substantial debts, and will continue to have substantial debts in the future. In addition, we have recently entered into contractual commitments to acquire a number of new aircraft for delivery over the next few years. See the section headed “Item 4. Information on the Company — Description of Property — Fleet”. As of December 31, 2004, our total outstanding debt was

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RMB34,714 million. Our long-term debt to equity ratio was 2.5. As of the same date, our current liabilities exceeded our current assets by RMB12,502 million, reflecting an significant increase in short-term bank loans and the portion of long-term bank loans payable within one year. Short-term bank loans outstanding totaled RMB6,189 million as of December 31, 2004.

     We largely rely on cash flow generated from our operations and external financing (including short-term bank loans) to meet our debt repayment obligations and working capital requirements. If our operating cash flow is materially affected by factors such as increased competition, significant decrease in demand for our services, or significant increase in jet fuel price, our liquidity would be adversely affected. We have arranged financing with domestic and foreign-funded banks in China as necessary to meet our working capital requirements. For example, a substantial portion of our short-term loans is rolled over upon maturity. However, our ability to obtain financing may be affected by our financial position and leverage, as well as by prevailing economic conditions and the cost of financing generally. If we are unable to obtain adequate financing for our capital requirements, our liquidity and operations would be adversely affected.

     Future financing requirements

     We require significant amounts of external financing to meet our capital commitments for additions of and upgrades on the aircraft and flight equipment and other business expansion needs. In the past, we have obtained, sometimes with the assistance of the CAAC, guarantees from Bank of China and other Chinese banks in respect of payments under our foreign loan and capital lease obligations. However, we cannot assure you that we will be able to continue to obtain bank guarantees in the future. The unavailability of Bank of China or other acceptable bank guarantees or the increased cost of such guarantees may adversely affect our ability to borrow internationally or enter into international aircraft lease financings on acceptable terms. The ability of our company to obtain financing may also be affected by our financial position and leverage as well as by prevailing economic conditions and the cost of financing generally. If we were unable to obtain financing for a significant portion of our capital requirements, our ability to acquire new aircraft or to expand our operations may be impaired. We have and in the future will likely continue to have substantial debts. As a result, the interest cost associated with these debts might impair our future profitability and cause our earnings to be subject to a higher degree of volatility.

     Related party transactions; conflict of interests

     We have engaged from time to time and will continue to engage in a variety of transactions with CEA Holding and various members of CEA Holding, which provide a number of services to us, including in-flight catering and import of aircraft, flight equipment and flight equipment spare parts. Our transactions with CEA Holding and members of CEA Holding are conducted pursuant to a number of service and other contracts between CEA Holding and us, entered into in the normal course of business. Since CEA Holding is our controlling shareholder and the interests of CEA Holding may conflict with our company’s own interests, CEA Holding or any member of CEA Holding may take actions that favor the interests of other members of CEA Holding over our company’s interests.

     Limitation on foreign ownership

     The current CAAC policies limit foreign ownership in Chinese airlines. Under these limits, non-Chinese residents and Hong Kong, Macau or Taiwan residents cannot hold majority equity interest in a Chinese airline company. At present, approximately 32.2% of our total outstanding shares are held by non-Chinese residents and Hong Kong, Macau or Taiwan residents. As a result, our access to international equity capital markets may be limited. This restriction may also limit the opportunities available to our

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company to obtain funding or other benefits through the creation of equity-based strategic alliances with foreign carriers. We cannot assure you that the CAAC will increase these limits in the near future or at all.

     Any future outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome or similar adverse public health developments in mainland China may have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.

     In late 2002 and the first half of 2003, mainland China and certain other countries and regions experienced an outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome, or SARS. On July 5, 2003, the World Health Organization declared that the SARS outbreak had been contained. However, new individual cases of SARS were reported after that date in mainland China and other countries and regions in Asia. Any future outbreak of SARS or similar contagious epidemic will, among other things, significantly reduce demand for our services and will have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.

     Changes in the economic policies of the Chinese government

     Since the late 1970s, the Chinese government has been reforming the Chinese economic system. These reforms have resulted in significant economic growth and social progress. These policies and measures, however, may from time to time be modified or revised. Adverse changes in economic and social conditions in China, in the policies of the Chinese government or in the laws and regulations in China, if any, may have a material adverse effect on the overall economic growth of China and investment in the airline industry in China. These developments, in turn, may have material adverse effects on our business operations, such as an adverse effect on the demand for our services, and may also materially adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations.

     Convertibility of Renminbi

     A significant portion of our revenue and operating expenses are denominated in Renminbi, while a portion of our revenue, capital expenditures and debts are denominated in U.S. dollars and other foreign currencies. Renminbi is currently freely convertible under the current account, which includes dividends, trade and service-related foreign currency transactions, but not under the capital account, which includes foreign direct investment, unless the prior approval of the State Administration of Foreign Exchange, or SAFE, is obtained. As a foreign investment enterprise approved by the PRC Ministry of Commerce, or MOC, we can purchase foreign currency without the approval of SAFE for settlement of current account transactions, including payment of dividends, by providing commercial documents evidencing these transactions. We can also retain foreign exchange in our current accounts, subject to a maximum amount approved by SAFE, to satisfy foreign currency liabilities or to pay dividends. However, the relevant Chinese government authorities may limit or eliminate our ability to purchase and retain foreign currencies in the future. Foreign currency transactions under the capital account are still subject to limitations and require approvals from SAFE. This may affect our ability to obtain foreign exchange through debt or equity financing, including by means of loans or capital contributions. We cannot assure you that we will be able to obtain sufficient foreign exchange to pay dividends or satisfy our foreign exchange liabilities.

     Fluctuations in exchange rates

     The value of Renminbi fluctuates and is subject to significant changes in China’s political and economic conditions. While the official exchange rate for the conversion of Renminbi to U.S. dollars has generally been stable in recent years, any revaluation of Renminbi may adversely affect the value of dividends, if any, payable on our H shares in foreign currency terms. We use currency forward contracts to reduce risks of changes in currency exchange rates in respect of ticket sales and expenses denominated in

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foreign currencies. These currency forward contracts will expire between 2006 and 2010. Since we may not be able to fully hedge against Renminbi devaluations, future movements in the exchange rate of Renminbi and other currencies may have an adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.

     Uncertainties embodied in the Chinese legal system

     The Chinese legal system is a civil law system based on written statutes. Unlike common law systems, it is a system in which decided legal cases have little precedential value. In 1979, the Chinese government began to promulgate a comprehensive system of laws and regulations governing economic matters in general. Legislation over the past 20 years has significantly enhanced the protection afforded to foreign investment in China. However, the interpretation and enforcement of some of these laws, regulations and other legal requirements involve uncertainties that may limit the legal protection available to you.

     Compliance with requirements under Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

     Our company will become subject to Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 in the fiscal year ending December 31, 2006. We cannot be certain as to the timing of completion of our evaluation, testing and any remedial actions in connection with our preparation for compliance with the requirements of Section 404 or the impact of the same on our operations. If we cannot implement the requirements of Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 in a timely manner or with adequate compliance, our independent auditors may not be able to provide a written attestation as to the effectiveness of our internal controls over financial reporting and we may be subject to sanctions or investigation by regulatory authorities, such as the Securities and Exchange Commission. As a result, there could be a negative reaction in the financial markets due to a loss of confidence in the reliability of our financial statements. In addition, we may be required to incur significant costs in improving our internal control system and the hiring of additional personnel. Any such action could increase our costs relative to our revenues, thereby reducing our operating margins and could negatively affect the market price of our ADSs.

Item 4.  Information on the Company.

History and Development of the Company

     Our company was established on April 14, 1995 under the laws of China as a company limited by shares in connection with the restructuring of our predecessor and our initial public offering. Our registered office is located at 66 Airport Street, Pudong International Airport, Shanghai, China, 201202. Our principal executive office is located at 2550 Hong Qiao Road, Hong Qiao International Airport, Shanghai, China, 200335. The telephone number of our principal executive office is (86-21) 6268-6268. We currently do not have an agent for service of process in the United States. Our predecessor was one of the six original airlines established in 1988 as part of the decentralization of the airline industry in China undertaken in connection with China’s overall economic reform efforts. Prior to 1988, the CAAC was responsible for all aspects of civil aviation in China, including the regulation and operation of China’s airlines and airports. In connection with our initial public offering, our predecessor was restructured into two separate legal entities, our company and EA Group. According to the restructuring arrangement, by operation of law, our company succeeded to substantially all of the assets and liabilities relating to the airline business of our predecessor. EA Group succeeded to our predecessor’s assets and liabilities that do not directly relate to the airline operations and do not compete with our businesses. Assets transferred to EA Group included our predecessor’s equity interests in companies engaged in import and export, real estate, advertising, in-flight catering, tourism and certain other businesses. In connection with the restructuring, we entered into various agreements with EA Group and its subsidiaries for the provision of certain services to our company. CEA

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Holding assumed the rights and liabilities of EA Group under these agreements after it was formed by merging EA Group, Yunnan Airlines Company and China Northwest Airlines Company in October 2002. See “Item 7. Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions” for more details. In 2004, our company’s total revenue accounted for approximately 73% of CEA Holding’s total revenue. The following chart sets forth the organizational structure of our company and our significant subsidiaries, all of which were incorporated in China.

(CHART)

     In February 1997, we completed our initial public offering of 1,566,950,000 ordinary H shares, par value RMB1.00 per share, and listed our ordinary H shares on The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited, or the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, and American Depositary Shares, or ADSs, representing our H shares, on the New York Stock Exchange. Prior to our initial public offering, all of the issued and outstanding shares of our capital stock, consisting of 3,000,000,000 ordinary domestic shares, par value RMB1.00 per share, were owned by EA Group, which exercises, on behalf of the Chinese government and under the supervision and direction of the CAAC, the shareholder rights in our company. In October 1997, we completed a public offering of 300,000,000 new ordinary domestic shares in the form of A shares to public shareholders in China and listed such new shares on the Shanghai Stock Exchange. Following the A share offering, EA Group continued to own 3,000,000,000 ordinary domestic shares, which represent 90.91% of our total ordinary domestic shares and 61.64% of our issued and outstanding share capital as of December 31, 2004. H shares are our ordinary shares listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, and A shares are our ordinary shares listed on the Shanghai Stock Exchange. Our H shares and A shares are identical in respect of all rights and preferences, except that the listed A shares may only be held by Chinese domestic investors and certain qualified foreign institutional investors. In addition, dividends on the A shares are payable in Renminbi.

     Since our initial public offering, we have expanded our operations through acquisitions and joint ventures. In July 1998, our company and China Ocean Shipping (Group) Company jointly established China Cargo Airlines Co., Ltd., which specializes in the air freight business. Our total investment in this joint venture was approximately RMB350 million, representing 70% of the equity interest of China Cargo Airlines Co., Ltd. In addition, we purchased from EA Group the assets and liabilities relating to airline operations of China General Aviation Company, for approximately RMB88 million in November 1999. China General Aviation Company was based in Shanxi Province in China and served primarily the northern region of China. Moreover, we completed our acquisition of Air Great Wall in June 2001 and established our Ningbo Branch following the acquisition. Air Great Wall was based in Ningbo, Zhejiang Province in China and served primarily the southeastern region of China.

     In May 2002, our company, jointly with Shanghai Civil Aviation Eastern China Kaiya System Integration Co., Ltd., established Shanghai Eastern Airlines Investment Co., Ltd., or SEAI. We hold a 99% equity interest in SEAI. The joint venture serves as one

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of the investment vehicles of our company for our investments in other industrial projects and provides consulting services. In August 2002, our company, jointly with Wuhan Municipal State-owned Assets Management Committee Office and two other independent third parties, established China Eastern Airlines Wuhan Limited, in which our company holds a 40% equity interest. China Eastern Airlines Wuhan Limited serves primarily the market in Hubei Province. We also entered into an agreement with Rockwell Collins International Inc. of the United States to establish a joint venture avionics maintenance service company in China in September 2002. Moreover, in November 2002, our company, jointly with China Aircraft Services Limited, established Shanghai Eastern Aircraft Maintenance Limited, in which our company holds a 60% equity interest. In order to expand our company’s operations in Jiangsu Province of China, we increased our investment in China Eastern Airlines Jiangsu Co., Ltd., or Eastern Jiangsu, in December 2002, together with other shareholders of Eastern Jiangsu. In 2004, our company contributed additional capital of approximately RMB408 million to Eastern Jiangsu. As a result, our equity interest in Eastern Jiangsu increased from 55% to 63%.

     In April 2003, we entered into a share transfer agreement with CEA Holding, pursuant to which we have acquired from CEA Holding a 45% equity interest in China Eastern Aviation Import and Export Company, or CEAIEC, for a consideration of approximately RMB44 million. CEAIEC was a wholly-owned subsidiary of CEA Holding prior to the transaction. Under the share transfer agreement, our company and CEA Holding each undertakes to the other party that it will not establish any other entity engaging in any business similar in nature or scope to the business conducted by CEAIEC. We believe that the acquisition of 45% equity interest in CEAIEC could reduce our company’s cost of importing aviation raw materials and enhance our company’s profitability.

     In December 2003, we also entered into a joint venture agreement with CEA Holding to establish China Eastern Air Catering Investment Company Ltd., or CEA Catering Investment. The registered capital of CEA Catering Investment is RMB350 million. Pursuant to the joint venture agreement, CEA Holding and our company made capital contributions of approximately RMB192.5 million and RMB157.5 million, respectively. As a result, CEA Holding and our company hold a 55% and a 45% equity interest in CEA Catering Investment, respectively. CEA Catering Investment is primarily engaged in the business of providing air and ground catering services, food and beverage supplies and other related services. Our board believes that our investment in CEA Catering Investment is beneficial to our company and its shareholders, and expects it to reduce the cost incurred by our company in providing catering services and to enhance our profitability and competitiveness in the domestic aviation industry.

     In addition, also in December 2003, we entered into an equity transfer and capital increase agreement with CEA Holding and Shanghai Eastern Development Corporation Limited, or SEDC, pursuant to which our company acquired 10% of SEDC’s then equity interest and 35% of CEA Holding’s then equity interest in Shanghai Dong Mei Aviation Travel Corporation Limited, a company that is primarily engaged in the business of selling air tickets, hotel reservation, travel agency and other related services. After the transaction, our company holds a 45% equity interest in Shanghai Dong Mei. Our aggregate investment in Shanghai Dong Mei was approximately RMB14.9 million.

     On February 18, 2004, we entered into a joint venture agreement with CEA Holding to establish China Eastern Real Estate Investment Co. Ltd., or CEA Real Estate, a limited liability company established under the laws of the PRC. The registered capital of CEA Real Estate is RMB100 million. Pursuant to the joint venture agreement, our company has made its capital contribution of RMB5 million in cash. As a result, our company owns a 5% equity interest in CEA Real Estate. CEA Real Estate is primarily engaged in the real estate business, including the development and sales of commercial premises and property leasing in Shanghai, China.

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     On March 10, 2003, we entered into a joint venture agreement with Singapore Technologies Aerospace Ltd. to establish Shanghai Technologies Aerospace Company Limited, or STAC, a Sino-foreign joint venture limited liability company established under the laws of the PRC. The registered capital of STAC is US$73 million with a total investment of US$98 million. Pursuant to the joint venture agreement, our company shall make an in-kind capital contribution of US$37.23 million (which includes but not limited to flight equipment and land use right) in installments to STAC. Our company owns a 51% equity interest in STAC. STAC is primarily engaged in the provision of commercial aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul services. STAC started operation in late 2004.

     On August 18, 2004, we entered into a joint venture agreement with China Ocean Shipping (Group) Company and China Cargo Airlines Co., Ltd. to establish Shanghai Eastern Logistics Co., Ltd., or Eastern Logistics, a limited liability company established under the laws of the PRC. The registered capital of Eastern Logistics is RMB200 million. Pursuant to the joint venture agreement, our company has made its capital contribution of RMB138.6 million in cash to Eastern Logistic. Our company, directly and indirectly, owns a 70% equity interest in Eastern Logistics. Eastern Logistics is primarily engaged in the provision of cargo logistics services. Eastern Logistics started operation after it obtained its business license from the relevant government authority on August 23, 2004.

     On 2 March 2005, we entered into an agreement with United Technologies Far East Limited (“UTFEL”), to establish Hamilton Sundstrand (Shanghai) Aerospace Technology Limited (“HSSATL”), a jointly controlled entity which will be principally engaged in the provision of repair and maintenance services for auxiliary power units of aircraft in the PRC. The registered capital of HSSATL is US$8.9 million, which is to be contributed by us and UTFEL in proportion of 51% and 49% respectively.

     Pursuant to the CAAC’s airline industry restructuring plan, EA Group merged with Yunnan Airlines Company and China Northwest Airlines Company and formed CEA Holding in October 2002. Yunnan Airlines Company and China Northwest Airlines Company were restructured as wholly-owned subsidiaries of CEA Holding after the merger and renamed as China Eastern Air Yunnan Company (“CEA Yunnan”) and China Eastern Air Northwest Company (“CEA Northwest”), respectively. CEA Northwest is based in Xi’an, Shannxi Province in China with approximately 30 jet aircraft and serves primarily the western region of China. CEA Yunnan is based in Kunming, Yunnan Province in China with approximately 26 jet aircraft and serves primarily the southwestern region of China. The airline operations currently conducted by CEA Yunnan and CEA Northwest compete with our company, in particular, on the Shanghai-Wenzhou route, Shanghai-Harbin route, Shanghai-Qingdao route, Shanghai-Changsha route, Changchun-Kunming route, Changsha-Ningbo route, Changsha-Kunming route and Changsha-Nanjing route.

     In order to further expand our business and enhance our market competitiveness, we have agreed to acquire from CEA Holding certain assets and liabilities relating to the aviation businesses of CEA Yunnan and CEA Northwest pursuant to a conditional assets transfer agreement entered into by our company, CEA Holding, CEA Yunnan and CEA Northwest on May 12, 2005 (the “Acquisition Agreement”). An English translation of the Acquisition Agreement has been filed with this annual report as an exhibit. The assets and liabilities being acquired by our company include relevant aircraft, engines and aviation equipment and facilities, certain employees and operating contracts, and other relevant fixed and current assets (whether owned or leased assets). Following the completion of the Acquisition Agreement, our company will assume and undertake the aviation operations and businesses currently carried out by CEA Yunnan and CEA Northwest in accordance with the Acquisition Agreement. The relevant air routes will also be injected into our company with such aviation businesses. The total consideration payable by our company under the Acquisition Agreement is approximately RMB986 million in cash, which will be adjusted by the profit generated or loss incurred by the aviation businesses of CEA Northwest and CEA Yunnan during the period

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from December 31, 2004 through the effective date of the Acquisition Agreement, which is expected to be June 30, 2005. The amount of such profit/loss will be determined with reference to the relevant financial statements prepared under PRC Accounting Standards and Regulations, to be audited by independent PRC accountants jointly appointed by our company and CEA Holding. According to the Acquisition Agreement, we will also assume aggregate liabilities of RMB8,556 million. This consideration consists of an initial consideration of approximately RMB690 million payable within five days from the effective date and the balance payable upon the fulfillment of certain conditions. We currently intend to finance the cash payment for approximately 50% of the consideration with our internal cash resources and the remaining by way of financing arrangements with financial institutions. We have obtained the requisite approvals from relevant regulatory authority in China for this acquisition and will submit the Acquisition Agreement for approval by our independent shareholders at the annual general meeting for the year of 2004 which is scheduled to be held on June 30, 2005 in Shanghai, China.

     Under the Acquisition Agreement, each of CEA Holding, CEA Northwest and CEA Yunnan has undertaken that at any time after completion of the Acquisition Agreement, it will not, and will procure its respective subsidiaries and associated companies (including members of CEA Holding) not to, carry out, engage in or otherwise become involved or interested in any business which competes or may compete, either directly or indirectly, with our company’s aviation business following completion of the Acquisition Agreement. The undertaking is not made for any definite period.

     As part of our continuing effort to upgrade our fleet, we have disposed of old aircraft and added new aircraft to our fleet. Our aircraft dispositions have reduced the average age of our fleet. All of our aircraft are registered with the CAAC. The table below sets forth our significant aircraft dispositions and additions since December 31, 2000:

                     
    2001   2002   2003   2004   2005(1)
Additions (Capital Leases and Purchases)
  3 Airbus 320
aircraft
3 Boeing 737-200 aircraft
  4 Boeing 737-700 aircraft   10 Airbus 320
aircraft
3 Airbus 340-600 aircraft
  2 Airbus 340-600 aircraft
2 Airbus 321
aircraft
5 Airbus 320
aircraft
  2 Airbus 321
aircraft
5 Airbus 320
aircraft
3 ERJ145 aircraft
 
                   
Additions
(Operating leases)
  4 Airbus 319
aircraft
  2 Airbus 319
aircraft 2 Boeing 737-700 aircraft
  5 Boeing 737-700 aircraft   1 Airbus 300F   3 Boeing 737-800 aircraft
 
                   
Dispositions
  0   2 Airbus 310
aircraft
  3 Boeing 737-200 aircraft   0   0
___________________________________________________________
 
(1)   Currently contemplated by our company.

Business Overview

     Our company is one of the three largest air carriers in China in terms of tonne-kilometers and number of passengers carried in 2004, and is the primary air carrier serving Shanghai, China’s eastern gateway. We accounted for approximately 18.9% of the total commercial air traffic (as measured in tonne-kilometers) handled by Chinese airlines in 2004. We operate primarily from Shanghai’s Hong Qiao International Airport and Pudong International Airport. In 2004, we accounted for 41.1% and 31.1% of all the flight traffic at Hong Qiao International Airport and Pudong International Airport, respectively. In 2004, we accounted for approximately 30.4% of the total passenger traffic volume and 20.9% of the total freight volume on routes to and from Shanghai.

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We have been consistently ranked as one of the best Chinese airlines in terms of service quality in each of the past five years according to a poll conducted by the China Civil Aviation Association.

     Compared to 2003, our traffic volume increased by approximately 49.3% in 2004. Our passenger traffic volume increase from 18,002.7 million passenger-kilometers in 2003 to 27,580.8 million passenger-kilometers in 2004, or 53.2 %. Our cargo and mail traffic volume increased by 44.6% from 1,296.6 million tonne-kilometers in 2003 to 1,874.7 million tonne-kilometers. In 2004, our average on-time performance rate was approximately 75.9%, which was slightly lower than the industry average rate of 79.9% in China.

     Airline Operations and Route Network

     The following table sets forth our traffic revenues by activity for each of the five years ended December 31, 2004:

                                                 
    2000     2001     2002     2003     2004     2004  
    (millions of     (millions of     (millions of     (millions of     (millions of     (millions of  
    RMB)     RMB)     RMB)     RMB)     RMB)     US$)  
Traffic Revenues
                                               
Passengers
    8,644       9,586       10,038       10,261       15,358       1,855.57  
Cargo and mail
    2,124       2,092       2,445       3,187       4,428       535.05  
 
                                   
Total Traffic Revenues
    10,768       11,679       12,483       13,448       19,786       2,390.62  
 
                                   

     Passenger Operations

     The following table sets forth certain passenger operating statistics of our company by geographic region for each of the five years ended December 31, 2004:

                                         
    2000     2001     2002     2003     2004  
Passenger Traffic (millions of passenger kilometers)
    14,102       15,911       18,206       18,003       27,581  
Domestic
    6,326       7,512       8,516       10,302       14,500  
Hong Kong
    1,896       2,028       2,234       1,934       3,038  
International
    5,879       6,371       7,457       5,767       10,043  
 
                                       
ASK (millions)
    22,596       25,814       27,963       29,780       41,599  
Domestic
    10,874       12,928       13,494       15,909       20,635  
Hong Kong
    3,115       3,609       3,650       3,692       4,857  
International
    8,608       9,277       10,819       10,178       16,107  
 
                                       
Passenger Yield (passenger revenues/passenger kilometers, in RMB)
    0.61       0.60       0.55       0.57       0.56  
Domestic
    0.63       0.63       0.55       0.54       0.57  
Hong Kong
    0.99       0.95       0.86       0.84       0.72  
International
    0.48       0.48       0.46       0.53       0.49  
 
                                       
Passenger Load Factor (%)
    62.43       61.64       65.11       60.45       66.30  
Domestic
    58.20       58.10       63.11       64.75       70.27  
Hong Kong
    60.85       56.20       61.21       52.37       62.55  
International
    68.33       68.68       68.93       56.66       62.35  

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     The primary focus of our business is the provision of domestic, Hong Kong regional and international passenger airline services. In 2004, our passenger operations generated revenues of approximately RMB15,358 million (approximately US$1,855.62 million), or approximately 73.0% of our turnover. We operated over 3057 scheduled flights per week (excluding charter flights), serving a route network that covers 88 cities within China and abroad. In 2004, we operated approximately 238 routes.

     In 2004, we operated approximately 2,231 domestic flights per week on 179 routes. Our domestic routes generated approximately 53.9% of our passenger revenues. Our most heavily traveled domestic routes generally link Shanghai to the large commercial and business centers of China, such as Beijing, Guangzhou and Shenzhen.

     In 2004, we also operated approximately 402 flights per week on 15 routes to and from Hong Kong, originating from Shanghai and 14 other major cities in eastern and northern China. Our Hong Kong regional routes accounted for approximately 14.2% of our passenger revenues in 2004.

     In 2004, we operated approximately 424 international flights per week on 59 routes, serving 88 cities in 11 countries, primarily linking Shanghai to major cities in east and Southeast Asian countries (Japan, Korea, India, Singapore and Thailand) and certain strategic locations in Europe, the United States and Australia. In 2004, we successfully introduced 11 new international routes including Shanghai-Kuala Lumpur, Shanghai-London and Shanghai-Vancouver to further enhance the function of Shanghai as our passenger hub. In addition, we launched new international routes of Shanghai-Bombay and Shanghai-Moscow in April and May 2005, respectively. Revenues derived from our operations on international routes accounted for approximately 31.8% of our passenger revenues. Revenues derived from our operations on our 15 Japan routes accounted for approximately 9.5% of our passenger revenues and approximately 30% of our international passenger revenues in 2004. Our Japan and Korea international routes and Hong Kong regional routes generally have been our highest yielding routes.

     Most of our international and Hong Kong regional flights and a substantial portion of our domestic flights either originate or terminate in Shanghai, the central hub of our route network. Our operations in Shanghai are conducted primarily at Hong Qiao International Airport and Pudong International Airport. All of our international flights originate or terminate at Pudong International Airport. Pudong International Airport is a newly constructed airport and is relatively further away from the central business district of Shanghai.

     In addition to our core Shanghai-based operations, we currently also have nine provincial hubs in eastern and northern China, each of which primarily serves, and is located in a principal commercial center of, one of the following provinces: Anhui, Jiangsu, Jiangxi, Shandong, Shanxi, Hebei, Zhejiang and Hubei. Jiangsu, Zhejiang and Shandong are among the most economically developed provinces in China. We believe that we will benefit from the level of development and growth opportunities in eastern and northern China as a whole by providing direct services between various cities in those regions and between those regions and other major cities in China. The provincial hubs also enable us to provide convenient connections for passengers on certain flights to and from Shanghai. Aircraft used for regional operations are mainly maintained by us on site at the hubs, and our sales offices are also based at each provincial hub.

     Cargo and Mail Operations

     The following table sets forth certain cargo and mail operating statistics of our company by geographic region for each of the five years ended December 31, 2004:

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    Year Ended December 31,  
    2000     2001     2002     2003     2004  
Cargo and Mail Tonne-Kilometers (millions)
    904       950       1,023       1,297       1,875  
Domestic
    159       176       206       258       328  
Hong Kong
    53       48       53       81       124  
International
    693       726       764       958       1,423  
Weight of Cargo and Mail Carried (millions of kilograms)
    286       302       345       460       664  
Domestic
    133       146       170       205       262  
Hong Kong
    37       33       39       57       85  
International
    116       116       136       198       317  
Cargo and Mail Yield (cargo and mail revenues/cargo and mail tonne-kilometers, in RMB)
    2.35       2.20       2.39       2.46       2.36  

     Our cargo and mail business generated revenues of approximately RMB4,428 million (approximately US$535 million) in 2004, representing approximately 21% of our turnover for the year.

     We must obtain from the CAAC the right to carry passengers or cargo on any domestic or international route. Our cargo and mail business generally utilizes the same route network used by our passenger airline business. China Cargo Airlines Co., Ltd. also maintains fourteen cargo routes. We carry cargo and mail on our freight aircraft as well as in available cargo space on our passenger aircraft. Our most significant cargo and mail routes are international routes. Revenues derived from our operations on international cargo and mail routes accounted for approximately 79.9% of our total cargo and mail revenues in 2004. Revenues derived from our operations on routes to Japan accounted for approximately 18.3% of our international cargo and mail revenues in 2004. In 2004, a new cargo flight on the route Shanghai-Dallas was launched, signifying a significant expansion of the freight services. In March 2005, we launched a new cargo route of Qingdao-Ningbo-Hong Kong.

     The development of cargo operations is an important part of our company’s growth strategy. After the establishment of China Cargo Airlines Co., Ltd., we have converted three MD-11 passenger aircraft into freight aircraft that are designated for cargo and mail operations, two of which were converted in the second half of 2003 and one in early 2004. We also wet-leased an Airbus A300 freighter on a short-term for our cargo operations in 2004.

     Regulation

     The PRC Civil Aviation Law provides the framework for regulation of many important aspects of civil aviation activities in China, including:

    the administration of airports and air traffic control systems;
 
    aircraft registration and aircraft airworthiness certification;
 
    operational safety standards; and
 
    the liabilities of carriers.

     The Chinese airline industry is also subject to a high degree of regulation by the CAAC. Regulations issued or implemented by the CAAC encompass virtually every aspect of airline operations, including route allocation, domestic airfare, licensing of pilots, operational safety standards, aircraft acquisition, aircraft airworthiness certification, fuel prices, standards for aircraft maintenance

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and air traffic control and standards for airport operations. Although China’s airlines operate under the supervision and regulation of the CAAC, they are accorded a significant degree of operational autonomy. These areas of operational autonomy include:

    whether to apply for any route;
 
    the allocation of aircraft among routes;
 
    the airfare pricing for the international and Hong Kong passenger routes;
 
    the airfare pricing within the limit provided by the CAAC for the domestic passenger routes;
 
    the training and supervision of personnel; and
 
    many other areas of day-to-day operations.

     Although we have generally been allocated adequate routes in the past to accommodate our expansion plans and other changes in our operations, those routes are subject to allocation and re-allocation in response to changes in governmental policies or otherwise at the discretion of the CAAC. Consequently, we cannot assure you that our route structure will be adequate to satisfy our expansion plans.

     The CAAC has established regulatory policies intended to promote controlled growth of the Chinese airline industry. We believe those policies would be beneficial to the development of and prospects for the Chinese airline industry as a whole. Nevertheless, those regulatory policies could limit our flexibility to respond to changes in market conditions, competition or our cost structure. Moreover, while our company generally benefits from regulatory policies that are beneficial to the airline industry in China as a whole, the implementation of specific regulatory policies may from time to time adversely affect our business operations.

     Because our company provides services on international routes, we are also subject to a variety of bilateral civil air transport agreements between China and other countries. In addition, China is a contracting state as well as a permanent member of the International Civil Aviation Organization, an agency of the United Nations established in 1947 to assist in the planning and development of the international air transportation. International Civil Aviation Organization establishes technical standards for the international airline industry. China is also a party to a number of other international aviation conventions. The business operations of our company are subject to those international aviation conventions as well.

     Domestic Route Rights. Chinese airlines must obtain from the CAAC the right to carry passengers or cargo on any domestic route. The CAAC’s policy on domestic route rights is to assign routes to the airline or airlines suitable for a particular route. The CAAC will take into account whether an applicant for a route is based at the point of origin or termination of a particular route. This policy benefits airlines, such as our company, that have a hub located at each of the active air traffic centers in China. The CAAC also considers other factors that will make a particular airline suitable for an additional route, including the applicant’s safety record, previous on-time performance and level of service and availability of aircraft and pilots. The CAAC will consider the market conditions applicable to any given route before such route is allocated to one or more airlines. Generally, the CAAC will permit additional airlines to service a route that is already being serviced only when there is strong demand for a particular route relative to the available supply. The CAAC’s current general policy is to require the passenger load factor of one or two airlines on

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a particular route to reach a certain level, currently 75%, before another carrier is permitted to commence operations on such route.

     Hong Kong Route Rights. Hong Kong routes and the corresponding landing rights were formerly derived from the Sino-British air services agreement. In February 2000, the Chinese central government, acting through the CAAC, and Hong Kong signed the Air Transportation Arrangement between mainland China and Hong Kong. The Air Transportation Arrangement provides for equal opportunity for airlines based in Hong Kong and mainland China. Competition from airlines based in Hong Kong increased after the execution of the Air Transportation Arrangement. The CAAC allocates route and landing rights among the seven Chinese airlines currently permitted to fly to Hong Kong. The CAAC normally will not allocate an international route or a Hong Kong route to more than one domestic airline unless certain criteria, including minimum load factors on existing flights, are met. Although no other Chinese airline currently operates on any of our Hong Kong routes, we cannot assure you that this will remain the case.

     International Route Rights. International route rights, along with the corresponding landing rights, are derived from air services agreements negotiated between the Chinese central government, acting through the CAAC, and the government of the relevant foreign country. Each government grants to the other the right to designate one or more domestic airlines to operate scheduled services between certain points within each country. Upon entering into an air services agreement, the CAAC seeks applications from the seven Chinese airlines currently approved to fly international routes. The CAAC awards the relevant route to an airline based on various criteria, including:

    availability of appropriate aircraft and flight personnel;
 
    safety record;
 
    on-time performance; and
 
    hub location.

     Although hub location is an important criterion, an airline may be awarded a route which does not originate from an airport where it has a hub. The route rights awarded do not have a fixed expiry date and can be terminated at the discretion of the CAAC.

     Airfare Pricing Policy. The PRC Civil Aviation Law provides that airfare for domestic routes are determined jointly by the CAAC and the agency of the State Council responsible for price control, primarily based upon average airline operating costs and market conditions. From February 1999 to March 2001, all domestic airlines were required to adhere to unified domestic airfare published by the CAAC from time to time and discounted sales were prohibited. In 2001, the CAAC gradually relaxed its control over domestic airfare pricing and, effective March 1, 2001, domestic airlines were permitted to offer discounts on several major domestic routes.

     On March 17, 2004, China’s State Council approved the Pricing Reform Plan for the Domestic Civil Aviation Industry, or the Pricing Reform Plan, effective April 20, 2004. Pursuant to the Pricing Reform Plan, the governmental authorities responsible for price control no longer directly set the airfare for domestic routes, but indirectly control the airfare for domestic routes by setting basic airfare levels and permitted ranges within which the actual airfare of Chinese airlines can deviate from such basic airfare levels. Chinese airlines are able to set their own airfare for their domestic routes within the permitted ranges and adopt more flexible sales policies to promote their services.

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     The CAAC and the National Development and Reform Commission jointly publish the pricing guidelines from time to time, which set forth the basic airfare levels and permitted ranges. Pursuant to the current pricing guidelines, the basic airfares for domestic routes are the published airfares implemented by Chinese airlines immediately prior to the approval of the Pricing Reform Plan (the average basic airfare for domestic routes is RMB0.75 per passenger-kilometer). Except for certain domestic routes, the actual airfare set by each Chinese airline for its domestic routes cannot be 25% higher and 45% lower than the basic airfare. Domestic routes that are not subject to the deviation range restrictions include short-haul routes between cities in the same province or autonomous region, or between a municipality and adjacent provinces, autonomous regions or another municipality. Certain tourist routes and routes served by only one Chinese airline are not subject to the bottom range restriction. The CAAC and the National Development and Reform Commission will announce the routes that are not subject to the deviation range restrictions through the airfare information system known as Airtis.net. Chinese airlines may apply to the CAAC and the National Development and Reform Commission for exemption from the bottom range restriction for a particular route. Chinese airlines are also required to file the actual airfare they set for their domestic routes within the ranges through Airtis.net 30 days prior to its implementation.

     The CAAC and the National Development and Reform Commission will regularly review the average operating costs of Chinese airlines, and may adjust the basic airfare for particular domestic routes which, in their view, is not at a reasonable level. We expect that, as reforms continue in 2005, we will have more flexibility in operating our aviation business in the future. The promotion by Chinese regulators of a regulated and orderly market and a fair and positive competition mechanism will also provide a favorable environment for the growth of our business.

     Under the PRC Civil Aviation Law, maximum airfare on Hong Kong and international routes is set in accordance with the terms of the air services agreements pursuant to which these routes are operated. In the absence of an air services agreement, the airfare is set by the airlines themselves or the CAAC with reference to comparable market prices, taking into account the international airfare standards established through the coordination of the International Air Transport Association, which organizes periodic air traffic conferences for the purpose of coordinating international airfare. Discount is permitted on Hong Kong and international routes. For the airline industry in China as a whole, airfare per kilometer is substantially higher for Hong Kong and international routes than for domestic routes.

     Acquisition of Aircraft and Spare Parts. Most Chinese airlines are required to purchase their aircraft, aircraft spare parts and other aviation equipment through the China Aviation Supplies Corporation, or the CASC, an entity controlled by the CAAC. However, our company is permitted to import aircraft, aircraft spare parts and other equipment for our own use from manufacturers through CEAIEC, which is 55% owned by CEA Holding and 45% owned by our company. This gives us freedom in rationalizing our maintenance practices by allowing us to maintain a relatively lower overall inventory level of aircraft parts and equipment than we otherwise would have to maintain. We are still required to obtain an approval from the National Development and Reform Commission for any import of aircraft. We generally pay a commission to CEAIEC in connection with these imports.

     Domestic Fuel Supply and Pricing. The Civil Aviation Oil Supply Company, or CAOSC, which is controlled by the CAAC, is currently the dominant civil aviation fuel supply company in China. We currently purchase a significant portion of our domestic fuel supply from CAOSC. The Chinese government determines the fuel price at which the CAOSC acquires fuel from domestic suppliers and the CAAC determines the retail price at which the CAOSC resells fuel to airline customers.

     Safety. The CAAC has made the improvement of air traffic safety in China a high priority. The CAAC is responsible for the establishment of operational safety, maintenance and training standards for all Chinese airlines, which have been formulated based on international standards. Each Chinese airline is required to provide flight safety reports to the CAAC, including reports of flight incidents or accidents involving its aircraft occurred during the relevant reporting period and other safety related problems. The CAAC conducts safety inspections on each airline periodically.

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     The CAAC oversees the training of most Chinese airline pilots through its operation of the pilot training college. The CAAC implements a unified pilot certification process applicable to all Chinese airline pilots and is responsible for the issuance, renewal, suspension and cancellation of pilot licenses. Each pilot is required to pass the CAAC-administered examinations before obtaining a pilot license and is subject to an annual examination in order to have such certification renewed.

     All aircraft operated by Chinese airlines, other than a limited number of leased aircraft registered in foreign countries, are required to be registered with the CAAC. All of our aircraft are registered with the CAAC. All aircraft operated by Chinese airlines must have a valid certificate of airworthiness issued and annually renewed by the CAAC. In addition, maintenance permits are issued to a Chinese airline only after the maintenance capabilities of that Chinese airline have been examined and assessed by the CAAC. These maintenance permits are renewed annually. All aircraft operated by Chinese airlines may be maintained and repaired only by the CAAC certified maintenance facilities, whether located within or outside China. Aircraft maintenance personnel must be certified by the CAAC before assuming aircraft maintenance posts.

     Security. The CAAC establishes and oversees the implementation of security standards and regulations based on the PRC laws and standards established by international civil aviation organizations. Each airline is required to submit to the CAAC an aviation security handbook describing specific security procedures established by the airline for the day-to-day operations of the civil aviation and security training for staff of such airline. Such security procedures must be formulated based on the relevant CAAC regulations. Chinese airlines that operate international routes must also adopt security measures in accordance with the requirements of the relevant international agreements. We believe that our company is in compliance with all applicable security regulations.

     Noise and Environmental Regulation. All airlines and airports in China are required to comply with noise and environmental regulations of the State Environmental Protection Agency that are modeled after international standards. The CAAC regulations allow Chinese airports to refuse take-off and landing rights to any aircraft that does not comply with state noise regulations. We believe that our company is in compliance with all applicable noise and environmental regulations.

     Chinese Airport Policy. Prior to September 2003, all civilian airports in China were operated directly by the CAAC or by provincial or municipal governments. In September 2003, as part of the restructuring of the aviation industry in China, the CAAC handed over 93 civilian airports to local provincial or municipal governments. The CAAC retained the authority to determine the take-off and landing charges, as well as charges on airlines for the use of airports and airport services. Prior to 2004, Chinese airlines were generally required to collect from their passengers on behalf of the CAAC a levy for contribution to the civil aviation infrastructure fund, which was used for improving China’s civilian airport facilities. Our revenue for the previous years is shown net of this levy. In 2003, the levy was 5% of domestic airfare for domestic routes and 2% of international airfare for international routes. The levy was waived by the CAAC from May 1, 2003 to December 31, 2003. We were officially notified by the CAAC that effective from January 1, 2004, the CAAC no longer charges such levy. However, we cannot assure that the CAAC will not charge other similar levies in the future.

     Limitation on Foreign Ownership. The CAAC’s present policies limit foreign ownership in Chinese airlines. Under these limits, non-Chinese residents and Hong Kong, Macau or Taiwan residents cannot hold a majority of our total outstanding shares. Currently, approximately 32.2% of our total outstanding shares are held by non-Chinese residents and Hong Kong, Macau or Taiwan residents.

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Competition

     Domestic. Domestic competition from other Chinese airlines has been increasing recently as our competitors have increased capacity and expanded operations by adding new routes or additional flights to existing routes and acquiring other airlines. We expect that competition in the future from other Chinese airlines on our routes will further increase as the CAAC promotes controlled competition in order to advance the growth of the domestic airline industry as a whole. Our company competes against our domestic competitors primarily on the basis of safety, quality of service and frequency of scheduled flights. With the combination of our dominant position in Shanghai, our route network and our continued commitment to safety and service quality, we believe that our company is well-positioned to compete against our domestic competitors in the growing airline industry in China.

     There are currently approximately 10 Chinese passenger airlines operating in China, and our company competes with many of them on various domestic routes. All of these airlines operate under the regulatory supervision of the CAAC. Our company, Air China, which is based in Beijing and listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange and the London Stock Exchange, and China Southern Airlines, which is based in Guangzhou and listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange and the New York Stock Exchange, are the three leading air carriers in China, both in terms of revenue tonne-kilometers and size of operations. Each of these three airlines operates at least 100 routes and has a fleet of at least 60 jet aircraft. As of December 31, 2004, our company, Air China and China Southern Airlines accounted for approximately 80% of the total commercial air traffic (as measured in tonne-kilometers) handled by Chinese airlines.

     Each of the domestic airlines competes against other airlines operating the same routes or flying indirect routes to the same destinations. Our principal competitors in the domestic market are China Southern Airlines and Air China, which provide transportation services on some of our routes as well, principally routes originating from the major air transportation hubs in China, such as Shanghai, Guangzhou and Beijing. Some of these routes are among our most heavily traveled routes. Since most of the major domestic airlines operate routes from their respective hubs to Shanghai, our company also competes against virtually all of the major domestic airlines on these routes. The number of airlines operating flights to and from Shanghai has increased significantly in recent years. We also face domestic competition from Shanghai Airlines, an airline based in Shanghai which is smaller than our company. Competition between Shanghai Airlines and us has increased as Shanghai Airlines expands its long-haul capacity and operates routes to more cities served by our company.

     Hong Kong. Our high yielding Hong Kong routes are highly competitive. The primary competitor on our Hong Kong routes is Dragon Air, which is controlled by China National Aviation Corporation, or CNAC, CITIC Pacific Limited and Cathay Pacific Airways Limited. We currently operate approximately 424 flights per week on routes between 15 Chinese cities and Hong Kong. Dragon Air competes with us on several of these routes. Moreover, in April 2003, Cathay Pacific Airways obtained the licenses to fly to Beijing, Shanghai and Xiamen in China. Cathay Pacific Airways commenced its services on the routes of Hong Kong-Beijing, Hong Kong-Shanghai and Hong Kong-Xiamen in December 2003, January 2005 and February 2005, respectively. With Cathay Pacific Airways commencing its operations on the Hong Kong-Shanghai route, we expect more intensified competition on our Hong Kong-Shanghai route. In addition to the frequency and convenience of our flights and the number of routes offered, our company’s competitive strategy for the Hong Kong routes also stresses safety and service quality. The new Air Transportation Arrangement signed between the Chinese central government and the administrative government of Hong Kong in February 2000

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provides for equal opportunity for airlines based in Hong Kong and mainland China. As a result, Dragon Air has increased the frequency of its flights on several of our Hong Kong routes and intensified the competition. At present, our Hong Kong routes benefit from traffic between Hong Kong and mainland China ultimately originating in Taiwan. During the Lunar Chinese New Year peak travel season in 2003, from late-January to mid-February, the Chinese government allowed special chartered flights between Shanghai and Taiwan for the first time. There were no such direct chartered flights in 2004. In 2005, from late-January to mid-February, airlines from both mainland China and Taiwan (including our company) operated 48 non-stop direct chartered flights between Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou of mainland China and Taipei and Kaohsiung of Taiwan. Although regular direct flights between Taiwan and mainland China are still not permitted, our results of operation on Hong Kong routes could be adversely affected if direct flights between Taiwan and mainland China are permitted in the future. We cannot assure you that our company can obtain sufficient Taiwan-mainland China routes or that the yields on these routes would be adequate to offset any adverse effect on our revenues derived from operation on our Hong Kong routes. Our company also faces competition from Dragon Air in our Hong Kong cargo operations.

     In 1995, CNAC acquired an interest in Air Macau. Air Macau started to operate routes in 1996 between Macau and mainland China, including routes to cities in mainland China such as Beijing, Shanghai, Xiamen and Wuhan. Air Macau also operates routes between Macau and Taiwan, including flights which allow passengers to travel between mainland China and Taiwan through Macau without changing planes in Macau. Air Macau’s routes provide an alternative to our Hong Kong routes for passengers traveling between Taiwan and mainland China. The airfare on some of Air Macau’s routes is significantly lower than airfare on our company’s comparable routes.

     International. We compete with Air China, China Southern Airlines, United Airlines and many other well-established foreign carriers on our international routes. Most of our international competitors are very well known international carriers and are substantially larger and have substantially greater financial resources than us. Many of our international competitors also have significantly longer operating history and greater name recognition than our company. Some international passengers, who may perceive these airlines to be safer than Chinese airlines in general, may prefer to travel on these airlines. In addition, many of our international competitors have more extensive sales networks and participate in reservation systems that are more convenient than those of ours, or engage in promotional activities, such as frequent flyer programs, that may be more popular than those of ours and effectively enhance their ability to attract international passengers. We also face significant competition in our international cargo operations. For instance, we compete with All Nippon Airways and Japan Airlines System in cargo operations on our Japan routes. Moreover, China and the United States entered into an air service agreement on July 24, 2004. Pursuant to this agreement, five additional airlines from each country will be allowed to serve the China-U.S. market over the next six years. It is expected that there will be a significant increase in China-U.S. air services over the next few years due to this agreement, which would further intensify competition in this market.

     Air China operates the largest number of international routes among all Chinese airlines. Beijing, the hub of Air China’s operations, is the destination for most international flights to China. We compete with Air China, All Nippon Airways, Japan Airlines System and Northwest Airlines, Inc. on our passenger routes to Japan. Our primary competition on our flights to southeast Asia comes from Thai Airways International, Singapore Airlines and China Southern Airlines. On our passenger flights to the United States, our principal competitors include Northwest Airlines, Inc., United Airlines, Air China and China Southern Airlines. On our European routes, our competitors include Air China, the Air France-KLM Group, and Lufthansa German Airlines. We compete with Air China and Qantas Airways Ltd. on our Australian routes. In September 1997, Shanghai Airlines was awarded limited international route rights by the CAAC. Our company competes in the international market on the basis of price,

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service quality, frequency of scheduled flights and convenient sales arrangements. To improve our competitive position in international markets, we have established additional dedicated overseas sales offices, launched our own frequent flyer program, participated in the “Asia Miles” frequent flyer program which is popular in Asia, and entered into code-sharing arrangements with a number of foreign airlines. We have also improved our online reservation and payment system.

     Maintenance and Safety

     The rapid increase in air traffic volume in China in recent years has put pressure on many components of the Chinese airline industry, including air traffic control systems, the availability of qualified flight personnel and airport facilities. In recent years, the CAAC has placed increasing emphasis on the safety of Chinese airline operations and has implemented a number of measures aimed at improving the safety record of the airlines. Our company’s ability to provide safe air transportation in the future depends on the availability of qualified and experienced pilots in China and the improvement of maintenance services, national air traffic control and navigational systems and ground control operations at Chinese airports. Our company has a good safety record and regards the safety of our flights as the most important component of our operations. Our company’s aircraft have not been involved in any accidents involving fatalities since 1995.

     Maintenance Capability. We currently perform regular repair and maintenance checks for all of our aircraft. We are able to perform 2D checks on our MD-82 aircraft, 4C checks on our Airbus A320 and Airbus A340-300 aircraft, and 12C checks on our A300-600 aircraft. We also perform certain maintenance services for other Chinese airlines. Our primary aircraft maintenance base is at Hong Qiao International Airport. We have additional maintenance bases at Pudong International Airport and each of our provincial hubs. Our maintenance staff in Shanghai supervises the operation of our regional maintenance facilities. Our company currently employs approximately 3,283 workers as maintenance and engineering personnel. Some of our aircraft maintenance personnel participated in the manufacturer training and support programs sponsored by Airbus Industrie G.I.E., or Airbus, and Boeing Corporation, or Boeing. In order to enhance our maintenance capabilities and to reduce our maintenance costs, we have, over the past few years, acquired additional maintenance equipment, tools and fixtures and other assets, such as airborne testing and aircraft data recovery and analysis equipment. Our company’s avionics electronic equipment is primarily maintained and repaired at our electronic maintenance equipment center located in Shanghai, which was set up in cooperation with Honeywell, Inc. and is one of the largest and most advanced avionic electronic facilities in China. In September 2002, our company and Rockwell Collins International Inc. of the United States entered into a joint venture agreement to establish Collins Aviation Maintenance Service Shanghai Limited, a joint venture that is primarily engaged in the provision of repair and maintenance services for avionics and aircraft entertaining facilities in China. Our company and Rockwell Collins International Inc. hold 35% and 65% equity interest in the joint venture, respectively. Moreover, in November 2002, our company, jointly with China Aircraft Services Limited, established Shanghai Eastern Aircraft Maintenance Limited, in which our company holds a 60% equity interest. We expect the joint venture company to provide supplemental avionics and other maintenance services to our company.

     In July 1996, we established a joint venture with Allied Signal Inc. in Shanghai for the purpose of performing maintenance and repairs on aircraft wheel assemblies and brakes. In 1997, our company entered into an agreement with Singapore Aviation Services Company, or SASCO, for the provision of additional maintenance services by SASCO to our company. In October 1997, we completed the construction of a maintenance hangar at Hong Qiao International Airport which has the capacity to house two widebody aircraft.

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     The enhancement of our maintenance capabilities allows our company to perform various maintenance operations in-house and continue to maintain lower spare parts inventory levels.

     Safety. The provision of safe and reliable air services for all of our customers is one of our primary operational objectives. Our company implements uniform safety standards and safety-related training programs in all operations. Our flight safety management division monitors and supervises our company’s flight safety. We have had a flight safety committee since the commencement of our business, comprised of members of our senior management, to formulate policies and implement routine safety checks at our Shanghai headquarters and all provincial hubs. The flight safety committee meets monthly to review our overall operation safety record during the most recent quarter and to adopt measures to improve flight safety based upon these reviews. We have also implemented an employee incentive program, using a system of monetary rewards and discipline, to encourage compliance with the CAAC safety standards and our safety procedures. We periodically evaluate the skills, experience and safety records of our pilots in order to maintain strict control over the quality of our pilot crews.

     The management of each of our provincial hub operations is responsible for the flight safety operations at that hub under the supervision of our flight safety management division. We prepare monthly safety bulletins detailing recent developments in safety practices and procedures and distribute them to each of our flight crew, the maintenance department and the flight safety management department. The CAAC also requires our company to prepare and submit semi-annual and annual flight safety reports.

     All of our jet passenger aircraft pilots participated in the manufacturer training and support programs sponsored by Airbus and Boeing and are required to undergo recurrent flight simulator training and to participate in a flight theory course periodically. Our company maintains an MD-82 flight simulator at our training facility located at the Pudong district in Shanghai, which is used for both initial and recurrent training of all of our MD-82 aircraft pilots. We also use an A300-600R flight simulator and an A320 flight simulator located at the Pudong district for training of our A300-600R pilots and A320 pilots, respectively. At present, we send all other jet passenger aircraft pilots to the training center of the CAAC or abroad for flight simulator training.

     Fuel Supplies

     Fuel costs represented approximately 27.5% of our operating expenses in 2004. We currently purchase a significant portion of the aviation fuel for our domestic routes from regional branches of the CAOSC. Fuel costs in China are affected by costs at domestic refineries and limitations in the transportation infrastructure, as well as by insufficient storage facilities for aviation fuel in certain regions of China. We purchase a portion of the aviation fuel for our international routes from foreign fuel suppliers located at the destinations of these routes, generally at international market prices.

     In 2004, our fuel expenses increased 78.3% as a result of increased weighted average domestic and international fuel prices and the expansion of our fleet. In particular, in 2004, the weighted average domestic and international fuel prices paid by our company increased by approximately 24.4% and 30.6%, respectively.

     Ground Facilities and Services

     The center of our operations is Shanghai, one of China’s principal air transportation hubs. Our Shanghai operations are based at Hong Qiao International Airport and Pudong International Airport. We currently also operate from various other airports in China, including Yaoqiang Airport in Jinan, Lukou Airport in Nanjing, Liuting Airport in Qingdao, Luogang Airport in Hefei,

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Xiangtang Airport in Nanchang, Wushu Airport in Taiyuan, Zhengding Airport in Shijiazhuang, Lishe Airport in Ningbo and Tianhe Airport in Wuhan. We own hangars, aircraft parking and other airport service facilities at Hong Qiao International Airport and Pudong International Airport and lease from CEA Holding certain buildings at Hong Qiao International Airport where our principal executive offices are located.

     We have our own ground services and other operational services, such as aircraft cleaning and refueling and the handling of passengers and cargo for our operations at Hong Qiao International Airport and Pudong International Airport. We also provide ground services for many other airlines that operate to and from Hong Qiao International Airport and Pudong International Airport. At other airports served by our company, we generally contract for ground services with these airports or the principal airlines based at these airports for fees and other charges which are typically based on passenger or cargo volume or aircraft tonnage.

     In-flight meals and other catering services for our Shanghai-originated flights are provided primarily by Shanghai Eastern Air Catering Limited Liability Company, a joint venture company affiliated with CEA Holding. We generally contract with local catering companies for flights originating from other airports. We have improved the quality of our in-flight meal service in recent years.

     We incur certain airport usage fees and other charges for services performed by the airports where our company operates, such as air traffic control charges, take-off and landing fees, aircraft parking fees and fees payable in connection with the use of passenger waiting rooms and check-in counter space. At domestic airports, such fees are generally charged at rates prescribed by the CAAC, which are lower than rates generally in effect at airports outside China.

     Marketing and Sales

     Passenger Operations. Our marketing strategy with respect to passenger operations is primarily aimed at increasing our market share for all categories of air travelers. With respect to our Hong Kong and international routes, we are permitted to market our services on the basis of price. We also have limited flexibility in setting our airfare for domestic routes after the implementation of the Pricing Reform Plan in April 2004, and therefore are able to adjust our airfare in response to the market demand on our domestic routes. As part of our overall marketing strategy, we emphasize our commitment to safety and service quality. We believe that emphasis on safety is a critical component of our ability to compete successfully. In order to improve our customer services, we participated in joint cabin crew training and exchange programs with foreign airlines, including Asiana Airlines and Japan Airlines System.

     We have also adopted customized strategies to market our services to particular travelers. We seek to establish long-term customer relationships with business entities that have significant air travel requirements. In order to attract and retain business travelers, we focus on frequency of flights between major business centers, convenient transit services and extensive sales network. We launched our “Golden Swallow” frequent flyer program in 1998 and joined the “Asia Miles” frequent flyer program in April 2001 to attract and retain travelers. In August 2003, we changed the name of our frequent flyer program to “Eastern Miles” and introduced a series of new services, including, among others, instant registration of membership and mileage, online registration of mileage, and accumulation of mileage on expenses at certain hotels and restaurants that are our strategic partners. Under our continual effort to carry out the “Eastern Miles” program, the number of frequent flyers surpassed 4.46 million in 2004, with a flight-taking rate of nearly 50%, bringing the influence of our products into full play. The special services hotline “95108” call-centre was established and came into operation in 2004.

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     In 2000, we launched the “China Eastern Airlines-Great Wall” co-branded credit card jointly with the Bank of China, which provides to our customers benefits such as airfare discounts, hotel room reservation packages and increased baggage allowances. In 2004, working with partner hotels, we launch Eastern Holiday product series to attract more leisure travelers. In addition, we continued to promote our “China Eastern Express” services on our Shanghai–Hong Kong and Shanghai–Beijing routes and our “China Shuttle” transit services. Our “China Eastern Express” services (including “BTBT” and “Shanghai Beijing Express”) provide more scheduled flights on the heavily traveled routes of Shanghai-Hong Kong and Shanghai-Beijing, compared with our other routes. Our “China Shuttle” services provide expedite transit services at Hong Qiao International Airport and Pudong International Airport for transit travelers on domestic routes and certain international routes, which significantly enhanced our customer service. We streamlined the transfer and connection procedures, rationally allocated flights, and also introduced different fares for connection flights to meet the needs of different travelers. All this improved our transit services quality and, as a result, the number of passengers who used our transit services exceeded 300,000 persons/time in 2004. In June 2004, we officially introduced our China Eastern Service Scheme to the public at large. Under this scheme, we will devote all efforts to flight scheduling, assurance and maintenance and enhance our non-regular services.

     We have entered into code-sharing arrangements with American Airlines, Japan Airlines System, Korean Airlines, Asiana Airlines, Qantas Airways and Air France. We are also contemplating more code-sharing arrangements with other airlines and plan to continue to strengthen our existing cooperation with other international airlines.

     Our advertising, marketing and other promotional activities include the use of radio, television and print advertisements. We plan to continue to use advertising and promotional campaigns to increase sales on new routes and competitive routes.

     In 2002, we upgraded our online ticket booking and payment system to facilitate customer purchases of tickets via the Internet. We also maintain an extensive domestic network of sales agents and representatives in order to promote ticket sales and assist customers. The majority of our airline tickets are sold by domestic and international sales agents. Our tickets are sold throughout China through approximately 4,000 sales agents and travel agents who have contractual relationships with us. Currently, our direct domestic ticket sales are handled primarily through employees based at our ticket counters located at Hong Qiao International Airport, Pudong International Airport, in downtown Shanghai and at our provincial hubs in Anhui, Jiangsu, Zhejiang, Jiangxi, Shandong, Shanxi, Hebei and Hubei provinces, as well as at the airports in Beijing, Chengdu, Fuzhou, Guangzhou, Hangzhou, Kunming, Ningbo, Shenzhen, Xiamen and Yantai. Direct sales are also promoted by the availability of telephone reservation and confirmation services. In addition to our domestic sales agents, we maintain overseas representative offices in Chicago, Los Angeles, Seattle, Madrid, Paris, Sydney, Tokyo, Osaka, Nagasaki, Fukuoka, Nagoya, Okayama, Singapore, Bangkok, Seoul, Dehli and Hong Kong, which facilitate the sale of international and Hong Kong air tickets and provide reservation confirmation and other services. In order to promote international ticket sales, we intend to increase our international sales force by expanding our overseas network of commissioned independent sales agents.

     We computerize in all of our direct passenger ticket sales. All Chinese airlines, including us, are required to use the passenger reservation service system provided by the CAAC’s computer information management center, which is linked with the computer systems of approximately 20 domestic airlines. We have entered into membership agreements with several international reservation systems, including ABACUS, the largest computer reservation system in southeast Asia, TOPAS of Korea, SABRE, GALILEO and WORLDSPAN of the United States, AMADEUS of Europe, and INFINI and AXESS of Japan, which have made it easier for customers and sales agents to make reservations and purchase tickets for our international flights.

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     Cargo Operations. We maintain a network of cargo sales agents domestically and internationally. We established domestic cargo sales offices in Dalian, Beijing, Shanghai, Xiamen and other major transportation hubs in China, and international cargo sales offices in Hong Kong, Los Angeles, Paris and our other overseas flight destinations. We are also improving our cargo sales on passenger flights through full utilization of our existing passenger sales network.

     Ancillary Airline Activities

     In addition to our airline operations, we also generate commission revenues from tickets sold on behalf of other airlines. Commission rates for these sales are determined by the CAAC and are based on the price of the tickets sold.

     Moreover, we derive revenues from the provision of airport ground services for airlines operating to or from Hong Qiao International Airport and Pudong International Airport, including aircraft cleaning, refueling, loading, unloading, storage and ground transportation of cargo and passenger luggage. At present we are the principal provider of these services at Hong Qiao International Airport and Pudong International Airport. We provide these services to foreign carriers generally pursuant to one-year renewable contracts. In 2004, we generated revenues of approximately RMB1,253 million (approximately US$153 million) from our airport ground services and ticket handling services.

     Patents and Trademarks

     We own or have obtained licenses to use various domestic and foreign patents, patent applications and trademarks related to our business. While patents, patent applications and trademarks are important to our competitive position, no single one is material to us as a whole.

     We own various trademarks related to our business. The most important trademark is the service trademark of China Eastern Airlines Corporation Limited. All of our trademarks are registered in China.

     Insurance

     The CAAC purchases fleet insurance from PICC Property and Casualty Company Limited, or PICC, on behalf of all Chinese airlines. PICC reinsures a substantial portion of its aircraft insurance business through Lloyd’s of London. The fleet insurance is subject to certain amount of deductibles. The premium payable in connection with these insurance is allocated among all Chinese airlines based on the aircraft owned by these airlines. Under the relevant PRC laws, the maximum civil liability of Chinese airlines for injuries to passengers traveling on domestic flights is RMB70,000 (approximately US$8,457) per passenger, for which our company also purchases insurance. Unless there is a separate agreement applicable for flights to or from a specific country, the Convention for the Unification of Certain Rules Relating to International Transportation by Air of 1929, or the Warsaw Convention, as amended by the protocol of 1955, provides that the maximum civil liability of airlines for international flights is US$20,000 per passenger. Our company is insured for the maximum international civil liability under any agreement applicable to us and under the Warsaw Convention. We also maintain hull all risk, hull war risk and aircraft legal liability insurance, including third party liability insurance, of the types and in amounts customary for Chinese airlines. See also “Item 3. Key Information — D. Risk Factors — Insurance coverage and cost” for more information on our company’s insurance coverage.

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Description of Property

     Fleet

     We are required to obtain approvals from the National Development and Reform Commission for importing aircraft. In 2004, we added a total of 10 new aircraft, including the purchase of 2 Airbus A340-600 aircraft, 5 Airbus A320 aircraft and 2 Airbus A321 aircraft as well as 1 Airbus A300F freighter under wet lease. Moreover, in 2004, we entered into agreements to purchase 20 Airbus A330-300 aircraft (with engines) and 6 Boeing 737-700 aircraft, respectively. In 2005, we also entered into agreements to purchase 5 Airbus A319 aircraft (with engines), 5 ERJ145 aircraft, 15 Airbus A320 series aircraft and 2 Boeing 747-400 aircraft respectively.

     As of May 31, 2005, we had a fleet of 104 aircraft, including 98 jet passenger aircraft that have more than 100 seats and 6 jet freighters. The following table sets forth the details of our fleet as of May 31, 2005:

                                                 
                    Number of                    
            Number of     Aircraft under     Number of     Average        
    Total Number     Aircraft     Operating     Aircraft under     Number of     Average age  
    of Aircraft     Owned     Lease     Capital Lease     Seats     (in years)(1)  
Jet Passenger Aircraft:
                                               
Wide-body:
                                               
A340-600
    5       5                   322       0.95  
A340-300
    5                   5       289       8.17  
Narrow-body:
                                               
MD-90
    9       2             7       157       6.40  
MD-82
    3             3             147       14.47  
A300-600R
    10       3       3       4       269       11.74  
A321
    2       2                   185       0.17  
A320
    35       18       10       7       158       5.84  
A319
    10             10             122       3.48  
Boeing 737-800
    2             2             158       0.08  
Boeing 737-700
    11       4       7             142       1.97  
Boeing 737-300
    6             3       3       138       6.86  
 
                                       
Total Passenger Aircraft
    98       34       38       26       180       4.76  
 
                                       
Cargo Aircraft:
                                               
MD-11F
    6       6                         12.33  
 
                                       
Total Fleet(2)
    104       40       38       26               5.42  
 
                                       
___________________________________________________________
 
(1)   The average aircraft age is weighted by the number of available seats.
(2)   Excludes fleet of China Eastern Airlines Wuhan Limited.

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     In 2004, our average daily aircraft utilization rate increased by 1.7 hours to 9.7 hours per day, primarily due to the further enhancement of our maintenance capability as well as increase in the number of flights in response to strong market demand. The table below sets forth the daily average utilization rates of our jet passenger aircraft for each of the three years ended December 31, 2004:

                         
    2002     2003     2004  
    (in hours)  
Wide-body:
                       
MD-11
    10.9       9.8       11.0  
A340-600
          9.9       12.6  
A340-300
    11.2       11.9       13.8  
A300-600R
    7.4       6.3       8.8  
 
                       
Narrow-body:
                       
MD-90
    7.7       6.9       8.5  
MD-82
    6.6       5.4       7.8  
A320
    8.8       7.8       9.4  
A319
    9.1       8.4       9.5  
Boeing 737-700
    10.0       9.0       9.9  
Boeing 737-300
    10.0       8.6       10.0  

     Most of our jet passenger aircraft were manufactured by either Airbus or Boeing. Our Airbus A340-300 and Airbus A340-600 aircraft are primarily used for our routes to the United States, Europe, Hong Kong, Japan and other international destinations, including Bangkok, Seoul and Singapore, and on major domestic routes to cities such as Beijing and Guangzhou. Our Airbus A320, MD-90 and Boeing B737 aircraft are suitable for middle and short distance flights and are primarily used for our domestic routes. MD-82 aircraft are primarily used for shorter distance domestic routes on which it is not possible to achieve high load factors with wide-body aircraft and on routes connecting to certain domestic airports which cannot accommodate the landing of wide-body aircraft. Revenues from commuter and general aviation services are immaterial to our results of operations.

     Our MD-11F aircraft are used for our cargo operations and carry cargo to Japan, Europe and the United States. Our general aviation services customers include provincial authorities in charge of agriculture, forestry and geology.

     Future Fleet Development. Our aircraft acquisition program focuses on aircraft that will modernize and rationalize our fleet to better meet the anticipated requirements of our route structure, taking into account aircraft size and fuel efficiency. Our aircraft acquisition program, however, is subject to the approval of the CAAC and the National Development and Reform Commission. The following table summarizes our currently anticipated jet aircraft deliveries from 2005 to 2006 as of December 31, 2004:

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    2005     2006     Total  
Aircraft
                       
A330-300
    0       7       7  
A330-200
    0       3       3  
A321
    2       0       2  
A320
    5       0       5  
A319
    0       3       3  
B737-800
    3       0       3  
B737-700
    0       6       6  
ERJ145
    3       2       5  
 
                 
Total
    13       21       34  
 
                 

     The actual acquisition of any of these aircraft or any additional aircraft may depend on such factors as the general economic conditions, our operating results and other capital requirements. We believe that our aircraft acquisition plan will help us accomplish our expansion plans while maintaining an efficient fleet and ensuring alternative sources of supply.

     We are currently in negotiation with Boeing Company for possible purchase of 15 Boeing B7E7 aircraft. These 15 Boeing B7E7 aircraft were allocated to us under an agreement entered into between China Aviation Supplies Imp. & Exp. Corporation and Boeing Company on January 28, 2005 regarding proposed purchase of certain Boeing B7E7 aircraft for future use by various PRC airlines companies. The possible purchase, if it materializes, will be introduced to our company’s fleet to cater to the increasing market demand, both domestic and international alike, enhancing our competitiveness and hence operating capability.

     Fleet Financing Arrangements. We generally acquire aircraft through either long-term capital leases or operating leases. To take advantage of the low interest rate for long-term loans in 2002, we also purchased certain number of aircraft and financed it by borrowing long-term loans from banks in China. Under the terms of most capital leases, we generally are obligated to make lease payments that finance most of the purchase price of the aircraft over the lease term. Upon the expiration of the lease term, we must either purchase the aircraft at a specified price or pay any amount by which such price exceeds the proceeds from the disposition of the aircraft to third parties. Alternatively, some capital leases provide for ownership of the aircraft to pass to us upon satisfaction of the final lease payment. Under capital leases, aircraft are generally leased for approximately the whole of their estimated working life, and the leases are either non-cancelable or cancelable only on a payment of a major penalty by the lessee. As a result, we bear substantially all of the economic risks and rewards of ownership of the aircraft held under capital leases. Operating leases, however, are customarily cancelable by the lessee on short notice and without major penalty. Under operating leases, substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership of the aircraft remain with the lessor.

     We intend to increase the use of operating leases to improve the flexibility of our operations. However, each decision on our financing alternatives will depend on an evaluation of the following factors:

    our aircraft requirements and anticipated future deliveries;
 
    capital structure and cash flow situation;
 
    prevailing interest rates; and
 
    other market conditions in effect at the time of any such acquisition or financing.

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     All of our payment obligations under current aircraft leases have been guaranteed by banks in China.

     Operating Facilities

     Our corporate headquarters, base maintenance center and other primary airport facilities in Shanghai, occupying an area of approximately 412,422 square meters of land, are located at Hong Qiao International Airport. We also own office buildings, cargo operating buildings and a maintenance center at Pudong International Airport. The total gross floor area of all of our buildings and facilities is approximately 341,000 square meters.

     We own all of the buildings and facilities located at Hong Qiao International Airport, with the exception of the office buildings where our corporate headquarters are located. We lease from CEA Holding our corporate headquarter office buildings and the land on which our corporate headquarters are located. We have acquired buildings and ancillary facilities at Pudong International Airport with a total gross floor area of approximately 158,400 square meters.

     Our operations in the nine provincial hubs in Jiangsu, Shandong, Shanxi, Hebei, Anhui, Jiangxi, Zhejiang and Hubei are located in the airports in Nanjing, Qingdao, Jinan, Taiyuan, Shijiazhuang, Hefei, Nanchang, Ningbo and Wuhan, respectively. In Nanjing, we lease all the buildings and facilities our company occupies from the airport authority. In Qingdao, Hefei and Nanchang, we have the right to use such buildings and facilities constructed and maintained by our company. However, the right to use such buildings and facilities cannot be transferred or leased to third parties. In Taiyuan and Shijiazhuang, we own our maintenance facilities and lease office building from CEA Holding and other facilities from the local airport authorities.

Item 5.  Operating and Financial Review and Prospects.

     You should read the following discussion in conjunction with our audited consolidated financial statements, together with the related notes, included elsewhere in this annual report. Our consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with IFRS. For a discussion of certain differences between IFRS and U.S. GAAP, see Note 39 to our audited consolidated financial statements.

Overview

     Our primary business is the provision of domestic, Hong Kong regional and international passenger and cargo airline services. Our overall capacity on an available tonne kilometer, or ATK, basis increased by 48.1%, from 4,774.5 million ATKs in 2003 to 7,071.2 million ATKs in 2004, and our passenger capacity on an available seat kilometer, or ASK, basis increased by 39.7%, from 29,780.0 million ASKs in 2003 to 41,599.1 million ASKs in 2004. Total traffic on a revenue tonne kilometer, or RTK, basis increased by 49.3%, from 2,907.7 million RTKs in 2003 to 4,340.7 million RTKs in 2004.

     We have agreed to acquire from CEA Holding certain assets and liabilities relating to the aviation businesses of CEA Yunnan and CEA Northwest. See the section headed “Item 4. Information on the Company — History and Development of the Company” for more details. This proposed acquisition is expected to result in expansion of our operation and increase in our traffic revenue. With the completion of the acquisition, we also expect to achieve reduction of our company’s unit costs, improvement of our service quality and enhancement of our overall strength and market competitiveness by rationalizing our route network and fleet, centralizing our procurement of aircraft and aircraft components, integrating our maintenance resources as well as streamlining our sales channels.

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     The historical results of operations discussed in this annual report may not be indicative of our future operating performance. Like those of other airlines, our operations substantially depend on overall passenger and cargo traffic volume and are subject to seasonal and other variations that may influence passenger travel demand and cargo volume and may not be under our control, including unusual political events and other unforeseen events. Our operations will be affected by, among other things, fluctuation of the aviation fuel price, aircraft acquisition and leasing costs, maintenance expenses, take-off and landing charges, wages, salaries and benefits, other operating expenses and the rates of income taxes paid. We expect depreciation expenses and operating lease expenses to increase as new aircraft and related flight equipment are acquired. Maintenance expenses may also increase as a result of acquisitions of new aircraft, although we expect to benefit from certain maintenance and fuel cost savings as older aircraft are retired and replaced.

     Our financial performance is also significantly affected by factors associated with operating in a highly regulated industry, as well as a number of other external variables, including political and economic conditions in China, competition, foreign exchange fluctuations and public perceptions of the safety of air travel with Chinese airlines. Because nearly every aspect of our airline operations is subject to the regulation of the CAAC, our operating revenues and expenses are directly affected by the CAAC regulations with respect to, among other things, domestic airfare, level of commissions paid to sales agents, aviation fuel price, take-off and landing charges and route allocations. The nature and extent of airline competition and the ability of Chinese airlines to expand are also significantly affected by various CAAC regulations and policies. Changes in the CAAC’s regulatory policies, or in the implementation of such policies, are therefore likely to have a significant impact on our future operations.

     Certain Financial Information by Geographic Region

     The following table sets forth passenger revenues, passenger traffic and passenger yield by geographic region for the years ended December 31, 2002, 2003 and 2004.

                         
    Year Ended December 31,  
    2002     2003     2004  
Passenger Revenues (millions of RMB)
                       
Domestic
    4,670       5,592       8,284  
Hong Kong
    1,911       1,627       2,187  
International
                       
Japan
    1,279       978       1,466  
U.S. and Europe
    1,250       785       232  
Other
    928       1,279       3,189  
 
                 
Total Passenger Revenues
    10,038       10,261       15,358  
 
                 
Passenger Traffic (millions of passenger-kilometers)
                       
Domestic
    8,516       10,302       14,500  
Hong Kong
    2,234       1,934       3,038  
International
    7,457       5,767       10,043  
 
                 
Total Passenger Traffic
    18,207       18,003       27,581  
 
                 
Passenger Yield (RMB per passenger-kilometer)
                       
Domestic
    0.55       0.54       0.57  
Hong Kong
    0.86       0.84       0.72  
International
    0.46       0.53       0.49  
 
                 
Total Passenger Yield
    0.55       0.57       0.56  
 
                 

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Operating Results

2004 Compared to 2003

     Turnover. Our turnover increased 47.4% from RMB14,277 million in 2003 to RMB21,039 million in 2004. This increase was primarily due to an increase of our passenger and cargo revenues, which were net of the applicable PRC business tax.

     Traffic revenues from our passenger as well as cargo and mail transportation business increased 47.1% from RMB13,448 million in 2003 to RMB19,786 million in 2004. Compared to 2003, the average aircraft daily utilization increased by 1.7 hours to 9.7 hours in 2004.

     Passenger revenues, which accounted for 77.6% of our total traffic revenues in 2004, increased 49.7% from RMB10,261 million in 2003 to RMB15,358 million in 2004. This increase was primarily due to the market recovery following the end of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) and the increase of our transportation capacity.

     Our domestic passenger revenues, which accounted for 53.9% of our total passenger revenues, increased 48.1% from RMB5,592 million in 2003 to RMB8,284 million in 2004. This increase was principally a result of the growing market demand following the end of SARS and the expansion of our transportation capacity, including the launch of new routes and increase in the number of flights. Compared to 2003, our domestic passenger traffic increased by 40.8% in 2004, and our domestic passenger load factor increased from 64.8% in 2003 to 70.3% in 2004. As a result of the favorable condition in the domestic passenger market since the end of 2003, we increased capacity on our domestic routes by 29.7% in 2004. Our domestic passenger yield increased from RMB0.54 in 2003 to RMB0.57 in 2004 per passenger-kilometer. This increase was principally a result of the increased pricing level due to strong demand in the domestic transportation.

     Hong Kong passenger revenues, which accounted for 14.2% of our total passenger revenues, increased 34.4% from RMB1,627 million in 2003 to RMB2,187 million in 2004. This increase was primarily due to the market recovery following the end of SARS and the increase in the number of business and leisure travelers. Hong Kong passenger traffic increased by 57.1% in 2004 over that of 2003. In order to meet market demand, we increased the passenger capacity on our Hong Kong routes by 31.6% in 2004. Our Hong Kong passenger load factor increased from 52.4% in 2003 to 62.6% in 2004, and our Hong Kong passenger yield decreased from RMB0.84 in 2003 to RMB0.72 in 2004 per passenger-kilometer. The decrease in passenger yield on Hong Kong routes was primarily due to (1) an increase in the number of leisure travelers, (2) various promotions offered by us and (3) competition from other airlines.

     International passenger revenues, which accounted for 31.8% of our total passenger revenues, increased 60.7% from RMB3,042 million in 2003 to RMB4,887 million in 2004. This increase was mainly due to the market recovery following the end of SARS and the increasing demand as a result of the recovering global economy in 2004. As a result, international passenger traffic increased by 74.1% in 2004 compared to 2003. Our international passenger capacity increased by 58.2% in 2004 compared to 2003. Our international passenger load factor increased from 56.7% in 2003 to 62.4% in 2004. Our international passenger yield decreased from RMB0.53 in 2003 to RMB0.49 in 2004 per passenger-kilometer. This decrease was primarily due to the increase in the number of leisure travelers and competition.

     We generate cargo and mail revenues from the transportation of cargo and mail on our designated cargo aircraft as well as from the carriage of cargo and mail on passenger aircraft. Revenues from cargo and mail operations, which accounted for 21.1%

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of our total transportation revenues in 2004, increased 39.0% from RMB3,187 million in 2003 to RMB4,428 million in 2004. This increase was primarily due to the increasing demand for cargo transportation driven by the continuing rapid growth of China’s economy following its accession to the World Trade Organization, the increase of our transportation capacity as well as the increase of our market share. Our cargo and mail traffic (as measured in revenue freight tonne-kilometers, or RFTKs) increased 44.6% from 1,297 million RFTKs in 2003 to 1,875 million RFTKs in 2004. This increase was primarily due to a significant increase in the capacity of our cargo transportation which resulted from the completion of the remodeling of MD-11 passenger aircraft into freighters, launch of new routes as well as an increase in the number of passenger flights which also carry cargo. Cargo yield decreased from RMB2.46 in 2003 to RMB2.36 in 2004 per cargo tonne-kilometer. This decrease was primarily due to intensified competition.

     Other operating revenues are primarily generated from airport ground services and ticket handling services. Airport ground services include loading and unloading, aircraft cleaning, fueling and ground transportation of cargo and passenger luggage for airlines operating to or from Hong Qiao International Airport and Pudong International Airport. We are currently the principal provider of airport ground services at both Hong Qiao International Airport and Pudong International Airport. Other operating revenues increased 51.1% from RMB829 million in 2003 to RMB1,253 million in 2004, which is higher than the 39.0% growth rate achieved in 2003. This increase was mainly due to the increase in the number of flights following the end of SARS and the enhancement of our capability in carriage, storage and handling of cargo with the establishment of Shanghai Eastern Logistics Co., Ltd.

     Other net operating income included rental income from operating sublease of aircraft and government subsidy net of loss on disposal of aircraft and engines. Our other operating income increased to RMB154 million in 2004 from RMB61 million in 2003. This increase was primarily due to a significant increase in rental income from operating sublease of aircraft.

     Operating Expenses. Our total operating expenses increased 39.7% from RMB14,117 million in 2003 to RMB19,714 million in 2004. This increase was primarily due to increases in aviation fuel expenses, aircraft depreciation and operating lease expenses, take-off and landing charges, food and beverage expenses, salary costs, commission expenses and other expenses. Our total operating expenses as a percentage of our turnover decreased from 98.9% in 2003 to 93.7% in 2004.

     Aviation fuel expenses increased 78.3% from RMB3,045 million in 2003 to RMB5,430 million in 2004. This increase was principally a result of our business expansion in 2004 and the increased international aviation fuel prices in 2004. In 2004, we consumed a total of 1,454,500 tonnes of aviation fuel, representing an increase of 42.1% compared to 2003. In 2004, the weighted average domestic and international fuel prices paid by our company compared to 2003 increased by approximately 24.4% and 30.6%, respectively.

     Aircraft depreciation and operating lease expenses increased 28.8% from RMB2,851 million in 2003 to RMB3,672 million in 2004. This increase was primarily due to our fleet expansion. Other depreciation, amortization and operating lease expenses increased from RMB495 million in 2003 to RMB496 million in 2004.

     The wages, salaries and benefits increased 28.8% from RMB1,449 million in 2003 to RMB1,866 million in 2004. This increase was primarily due to an increase in the number of staff resulting from the expansion of our company and our main operations as well as an increase in staff’s average salaries with the introduction of an incentive compensation plan that is linked to profit and various factors. The increase was also partially attributable to the introduction of an incentive plan for our pilots that links allowances to flying hours.

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     Take-off and landing charges increased 34.0% from RMB2,254 million in 2003 to RMB3,020 million in 2004, which accounted for 15.3% of our total operating expenses in 2004. This increase was primarily due to the expansion of our business and the increased number of flights.

     Aircraft maintenance expenses were RMB1,396 million in 2004, compared to RMB1,329 million in 2003, an increase of 5.0%. This increase was mainly due to the increased aircraft maintenance performed as a result of the increase in the number of our flights in 2004.

     Commission expenses increased 66.0% from RMB465 million in 2003 to RMB772 million in 2004. This increase was primarily due to the increase in the revenues of our domestic and international businesses.

     Food and beverage expenses increased 39.9% from RMB542 million in 2003 to RMB758 million in 2004. This increase was primarily due to an increase in the number of travelers which was partially offset by a decrease of the average cost of food and beverage as a result of our cost-control initiatives.

     Office and administration expenses increased by 26.5% from RMB1,058 million in 2003 to RMB1,338 million in 2004. This increase was primarily due to an increase in pilot and aircrew training expenses, overseas expenses as well as travel expenses.

     Other operating expenses increased 53.8% from RMB628 million in 2003 to RMB966 million in 2004. Other operating expenses mainly included SITA ticket reservation system charges, SITA departure control system charges, civil aviation infrastructure levy, provision for obsolescence of flight equipment spare parts, maintenance expenses and loss on disposal of other fixed assets, insurance costs, operating income and expenses relating to the newly-established Shanghai Eastern Logistics Co., Ltd. This increase was mainly attributable to increases in SITA ticket reservation system charges, SITA departure control system charges, civil aviation infrastructure levy as well as expenses relating to the newly-established Shanghai Eastern Logistics Co., Ltd.

     Non-operating Income. Non-operating income was RMB133 million in 2004, which was due to the rescission of certain related party lease arrangements between CEA Northwest and us. For more details, please see Note 34(c)(ii) to our audited consolidated financial statements.

     Net Profits. As a result of the foregoing, net profit attributable to shareholders was RMB514 million in 2004 compared to a loss of RMB950 million in 2003.

     Fixed Assets. Our company had approximately RMB30,220 million of fixed assets as of December 31, 2004, including aircraft and flight equipment with a value of approximately RMB27,169 million. Fixed assets are initially recognized at cost and are subsequently stated at revalued amount, being its fair value at the date of revaluation less any subsequent accumulated depreciation.

     Valuation of fixed assets is based on market conditions and global economic factors that we may not control. The determination of fair value requires significant judgment, including judgment on valuations by our management and/or by independent professional appraisers. Our directors have reviewed the carrying value of our fixed assets as of December 31, 2004 and are of the opinion that the carrying amount is not materially different from the fair value of our fixed assets.

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2003 Compared to 2002

     Turnover. Our turnover increased from RMB13,079 million in 2002 to RMB14,277 million in 2003, or 9.2%, reflecting increase in our domestic passenger and cargo revenues. These revenues were net of the applicable PRC business tax and civil aviation infrastructure levies.

     Revenues from our passenger and cargo and mail transportation business increased from RMB12,482 million in 2002 to RMB13,448 million in 2003, or 7.7%. Compared to 2002, the average aircraft daily utilization decreased by 0.6 hours to 8.0 hours in 2003.

     Passenger revenues, which accounted for 76.3% of our total transportation revenues in 2003, increased from RMB10,038 million in 2002 to RMB10,261 million in 2003, or 2.2%, reflecting increase in domestic passenger revenues driven by the recovery of the domestic passenger market during the second half of 2003. Passenger revenues in the second half of 2003 were RMB6,555 million, representing an increase of 21.3% from RMB5,405 million in the second half of 2002.

     Our domestic passenger revenues, which accounted for 54.4% of our total passenger revenues, increased from RMB4,670 million in 2002 to RMB5,592 million in 2003, or 19.7%, primarily because we took advantage of the opportunities created by the recovery of the domestic passenger market during the second half of 2003 and attracted more customers. Domestic passenger revenues in the second half of 2003 were RMB3,651 million, representing an increase of 46.9% from RMB2,485 million in the second half of 2002. Compared to 2002, our domestic passenger traffic increased by 21.0% in 2003, and our domestic passenger load factor increased from 63.1% in 2002 to 64.8% in 2003. In response to the market demand, we increased capacity on our domestic routes by 17.9% in 2003. Our domestic passenger yield decreased slightly from RMB0.55 in 2002 to RMB0.54 in 2003 per passenger-kilometer, primarily due to competition in the domestic market.

     Hong Kong passenger revenues, which accounted for 15.9% of our total passenger revenues, decreased from RMB1,911 million in 2002 to RMB1,627 million in 2003, or 14.9%, primarily due to the adverse effect on the traffic volume on our Hong Kong regional routes by the outbreak and spread of a highly contagious form of atypical pneumonia, also known as severe acute respiratory syndrome, or SARS, in Hong Kong and other areas in China. Hong Kong passenger traffic decreased by 13.4% in 2003 over that of 2002. In order to increase our market share and in response to competition on our Hong Kong routes, we increased the passenger capacity on our Hong Kong routes by 1.2% in 2003. Our Hong Kong passenger load factor decreased from 61.2% in 2002 to 52.4% in 2003, and our Hong Kong passenger yield decreased from RMB0.86 in 2002 to RMB0.84 in 2003 per passenger-kilometer. The decrease in passenger load factor and passenger yield on Hong Kong routes was also attributable to competition from other airlines.

     International passenger revenues, which accounted for 29.7% of our total passenger revenues, decreased from RMB3,457 million in 2002 to RMB3,042 million in 2003, or 12.0%. The decrease in international passenger revenues mainly reflected decreased international passenger traffic caused by SARS. Starting from the end of 2002 until mid June 2003, most areas of China were affected by SARS. The SARS-related travel advice issued by the World Health Organization as well as governmental agencies and private companies of other countries significantly discouraged business travelers and tourists to travel to China. Other factors such as the Iraq war and the terrorist activities also affected the international traffic. As a result, international passenger traffic decreased by 22.7% in 2003 over that of 2002. Our international passenger capacity decreased by 5.9% in 2003 compared to 2002. Our international passenger load factor decreased from 68.9% in 2002 to 56.7% in 2003. However, our international passenger yield increased from RMB0.46 in 2002 to RMB0.53 in 2003 per passenger-kilometer

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primarily because the increase in customers who fly business class on our international routes and the appreciation of certain foreign currencies against Renminbi in 2003.

     We generate cargo and mail revenues from the transportation of cargo and mail on our designated cargo aircraft as well as from the carriage of cargo and mail on passenger aircraft. Revenues from cargo and mail operations, which accounted for 23.7% of our total transportation revenues in 2003, increased from RMB2,445 million in 2002 to RMB3,187 million in 2003, or 30.4%. The increase in our cargo revenues was primarily the result of our increased freight charges in response to the increased demand. The demand was driven by increased importation and exportation after China’s admission to the World Trade Organization, or WTO. Our cargo and mail traffic (as measured in revenue freight tonne-kilometers, or RFTKs) increased from 1,023 million RFTKs in 2002 to 1,297 million RFTKs in 2003, or 26.7%. In response to the rapid growth in our cargo and mail operations, we successively remodeled three MD-11 passenger aircraft into freighters in the second half of 2003. Cargo yield increased from RMB2.39 in 2002 to RMB2.46 in 2003 per cargo tonne-kilometer primarily as a result of increased market demand.

     Other operating revenues are primarily generated from airport ground services and ticket handling services. Airport ground services include loading and unloading, aircraft cleaning, fueling and ground transportation of cargo and passenger luggage for airlines operating to or from Hong Qiao International Airport and Pudong International Airport. We are currently the principal provider of airport ground services at both Hong Qiao International Airport and Pudong International Airport. Other operating revenues increased from RMB596 million in 2002 to RMB829 million in 2003, or 39.0%, which is higher than the 25.8% growth rate achieved in 2002. The increase in other operating revenues in 2003 was mainly due to increase in our airport ground service revenues as a result of increased volume of imported and exported goods after China’s admission to the WTO. It is also attributable to the increase in our commission revenues generated from our ticket handling services provided to other airlines.

     Operating Expenses. Our total operating expenses increased from RMB12,242 million in 2002 to RMB14,117 million in 2003, or 11.5%, reflecting mainly increase in aviation fuel expenses, wages, salaries and benefits, other depreciation, amortization and operating lease expenses, aircraft maintenance expenses, commissions and take-off and landing charges. Our total operating expenses as a percentage of our turnover increased from 93.6% in 2002 to 98.9% in 2003.

     Aviation fuel expenses increased from RMB2,564 million in 2002 to RMB3,045 million in 2003, or 18.8%, primarily as a result of increased fuel prices and the expansion of our fleet. In 2003, we consumed a total of 1,023,700 tonnes of aviation fuel, representing an increase of 8.8% compared to 2002. In 2003, due to the Iraqi war, the weighted average domestic and international fuel prices paid by our company increased by approximately 10.6% and 3.6%, respectively.

     Aircraft depreciation and operating lease expenses increased from RMB2,455 million in 2002 to RMB2,851 million in 2003, or 16.1%. Other depreciation, amortization and operating lease expenses increased from RMB400 million in 2002 to RMB495 million in 2003, or 23.7%, primarily due to the expansion of our fleet.

     The wages, salaries and benefits increased from RMB1,036 million in 2002 to RMB1,449 million in 2003, or 39.9%, mainly because our work force increased by approximately 5% compared to 2002, and in order to meet the requirements of our fleet expansion, most of our newly hired staff are pilots and cabin crew that are paid relatively high compared to our average salaries. In addition, in accordance with relevant government regulations and with reference to the policies implemented by enterprises in nearby regions, we formulated a staff housing allowance plan in 2003. The housing allowance standards under the new housing plan are higher than the standards to which we made references in 2000 in making provisions. Moreover,

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the number of employees who are qualified to receive housing allowance also increased in 2003. As a result, we recognized provisions of RMB340 million as of December 31, 2003, which amount is RMB260 million higher than the provisions of RMB80 million that we made in 2000. The increased amount of the provisions was fully charged to our income statement for our fiscal year ended December 31, 2003.

     Take-off and landing charges increased from RMB1,988 million in 2002 to RMB2,254 million in 2003, or 13.4%, which accounted for 16.0% of our total operating expenses in 2003, primarily due to the mandatory increase in the take-off and landing charges for domestic flights by the CAAC, effective September 1, 2002, and a 20.1% increase in 2003 in our domestic flight take-offs and landings compared to 2002.

     Aircraft maintenance expenses were RMB1,329 million in 2003, compared to RMB1,078 million in 2002, an increase of 23.3%. This increase is mainly due to increased number of aircraft and engines that were subject to overhaul in 2003, and increased maintenance of aircraft that were temporarily out of service during the period of SARS.

     Commission expenses increased from RMB380 million in 2002 to RMB465 million in 2003, or 22.5%, primarily due to commission payments to China Eastern Air Northwest Company and China Eastern Air Yunnan Company that began to sell our passenger tickets since March 2003.

     Food and beverage expenses decreased from RMB606 million in 2002 to RMB542 million in 2003, or 10.6%, primarily due to decreased provision of food and beverage during the period of SARS, and our effective control over purchases and provision of food and beverage, which is partially offset by the increased expenses resulted from the increased traffic volume on domestic routes.

     Other operating expenses increased from RMB520 million in 2002 to RMB570 million in 2003, or 9.7%. Other operating expenses included provision for obsolescence of flight equipment spare parts, maintenance expenses of other fixed assets, computer and telecommunications expenses and other expenses. The increase was mainly attributable to increase in provision for obsolescence of flight equipment spare parts and maintenance expenses for our office building in Pudong.

     Net Losses. The net losses attributable to shareholders was RMB950 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2003.

     Fixed Assets. Our company had approximately RMB26.8 billion of fixed assets as of December 31, 2003, including aircraft and flight equipment with a value of approximately RMB23.8 billion. Fixed assets are initially recognized at cost and are subsequently stated at revalued amount, being its fair value at the date of revaluation less any subsequent accumulated depreciation.

     Valuation of fixed assets is based on market conditions and global economic factors that we may not control. The determination of fair market value requires significant judgment, including judgment on valuations by our management and/or by independent professional appraisers. Our directors have reviewed the carrying value of our fixed assets as of December 31, 2003 and are of the opinion that the carrying amount is not materially different from the fair value of our fixed assets.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

     We finance our working capital requirements through a combination of funds generated from operations and short-term bank loans. As a result, our liquidity would be adversely affected to the extent there is a significant decrease in demand for our

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services, or any delay in obtaining bank loans. As of December 31, 2003 and 2004, we had cash and cash equivalents of RMB1,583 million and RMB2,114 million, respectively. In 2003 and 2004, our net cash inflows generated from operating activities were RMB3,163 million and RMB3,266 million, respectively, while our net cash outflows used in investment activities were RMB7,305 million and RMB2,433 million, respectively. In the past two years, our primary cash requirements were the funds for the acquisitions and upgrades of aircraft and flight equipment and debt repayments.

     In 2003 and 2004, payment of advances on aircraft and flight equipment were RMB1,296 million and RMB2,077 million, respectively, while additions of aircraft and flight equipment were RMB5,560 million and RMB1,207 million, respectively. We financed the additions to our aircraft and flight equipment primarily through lease arrangements, bank loans, and funds generated from operations. Funds generated from disposal of old aircraft and flight equipment and other fixed assets and equipment (including by way of exchange) totaled RMB92 million and RMB668 million in 2003 and 2004, respectively. Our net cash inflow generated from financing activities was RMB3,764 million in 2003, primarily from proceeds from bank loans. Our net cash outflow generated from financing activities was RMB312 million in 2004, primarily due to repayment of bank loans.

     Pursuant to certain of our finance or operating leases, we are required to indemnify the lessors against any withholding or similar taxes that may be imposed on the lessors by taxing authorities in China with regard to payments made under these leases. Pursuant to a regulation issued in 2000 by the State Tax Bureau of China, lease payments made by Chinese airlines to foreign enterprises in respect of lease arrangements entered into prior to September 1, 1999 are exempt from the payment of any withholding tax. Withholding tax payable in respect of the lease arrangements entered into on or after September 1, 1999 are charged to our income statement as incurred.

     We generally operate with a working capital deficit. As of December 31, 2004, our current liabilities exceeded our current assets by RMB12,502 million, while our current liabilities exceeded our current assets by RMB9,941 million as of December 31, 2003. The increase in our current liabilities in 2004 was due to increase in short-term bank loans and the portion of long-term bank loans payable within one year. Short-term loans outstanding totaled RMB4,632 million and RMB6,189 million as of December 31, 2003 and 2004, respectively. Long-term bank loans outstanding totaled RMB11,223 million and RMB10,736 million as of December 31, 2003 and 2004, respectively. Long-term loans payable within two years, from three to five years and beyond five years were 5,580 million, RMB3,216 million and RMB1,940 million, respectively, as of December 31, 2004, as compared to RMB4,689 million, RMB4,164 million and RMB2,370 million, respectively, as of December 31, 2003. The total lease obligations outstanding under our finance leases as of December 31, 2003 and 2004 were RMB7,101 million and RMB8,662 million, respectively. Our lease obligations payable within two years, from three to five years and beyond five years were RMB2,889 million, RMB3,756 million and RMB2,017 million, respectively, as of December 31, 2004, as compared to RMB2,679 million, RMB4,039 million and RMB383 million, respectively, as of December 31, 2003.

     We have, and in the future may continue to have, substantial debts. As of December 31, 2003 and 2004, our long-term debt to equity ratio was 2.6 and 2.5, respectively. The interest expenses associated with these debts might impair our future profitability. We expect that cash from operations and bank borrowings will be sufficient to meet our operating cash flow requirements, although events that materially affect our operating results can also have a negative impact on liquidity. We have entered into credit facility agreements with Chinese banks to meet our future working capital needs. We have arranged, and we believe that we will continue to be able to arrange, short-term bank loans with domestic and foreign-funded banks in China as necessary to meet our working capital requirements. However, our ability to obtain financing may be affected by our financial position and leverage, as well as by prevailing economic conditions and the cost of financing generally. If we are unable to obtain financing for a significant portion of our capital requirements, our ability to acquire new aircraft or to expand our operations could be impaired.

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Capital Expenditures

     Our aircraft orders as of December 31, 2004 included commitments to acquire 31 aircraft to be delivered in 2005 and 2006. We expect our capital expenditures for aircraft and related equipment, including deposits, through 2006 to be in aggregate approximately RMB8,791 million, including RMB6,945 million in 2005 and RMB1,350 million in 2006, in each case subject to contractually stipulated increases or any increase relating to inflation. We generally finance our purchase of aircraft through operating leases and bank loans secured by our assets. As of December 31, 2004, the total value of our mortgaged assets increased by 33.9%, from RMB9,735 million as of December 31, 2003 to RMB13,033 million as of December 31, 2004. Construction of our facilities at the Pudong International Airport and the purchase of maintenance equipment and other property and equipment will continue to require additional capital expenditures in 2005. We plan to finance our other capital commitments through a combination of funds generated from operations, existing credit facilities, bank loans, leasing arrangements and other external financing arrangements.

Contractual Obligations and Commercial Commitments

     The following tables set forth our outstanding contractual and commercial commitments as of December 31, 2004.

                                         
            Payments Due by Period  
Contractual Obligations   Total     Less Than 1 Year     1-3 Years     4-5 Years     After 5 Years  
            (RMB millions)  
Long-Term Debt
    10,736       3,193       3,978       1,625       1,940  
Capital Leases
    8,662       1,190       3,760       1,695       2,017  
Operating Leases
    5,847       1,044       2,153       2,077       573  
Unconditional Purchase Obligations
    9,229       7,383       1,846              
Other Long-Term Obligations
    112       30       60       22        
 
                             
Total
    34,586       12,840       11,797       5,242       4,707  
 
                             
 
    Total Amounts     Amount of Commitment Expiration Per Period  
Other Commercial Commitments   Committed     Less Than 1 Year     1-3 Years     4-5 Years     After 5 Years  
    (RMB millions)     (RMB millions)  
Line of Credit
    46,836       3,270       43,566              
Standby Letters of Credit
                             
Guarantees
                             
Standby Repurchase Obligations
                             
Other Commercial Commitments(1)
                             
 
                             
Total
    46,836       3,270       43,566              
 
                             

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Critical Accounting Policies

     Critical accounting policies are defined as those that are reflective of significant judgments and uncertainties and potentially result in materially different results under different assumptions and conditions.

     Our audited consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with IFRS. Our principal accounting policies are set forth in Note 2 to our audited consolidated financial statements. IFRS requires that we adopt the accounting policies and make estimates that our directors believe are most appropriate in the circumstances for the purposes of giving a true and fair view of our results and financial condition. However, different policies, estimates and assumptions in critical areas could lead to materially different results. The critical accounting policies adopted and estimates made in the preparation of these financial statements are identified as follows:

     Revenue recognition — As discussed in Note 2(d) to our audited consolidated financial statements, passenger, cargo and mail revenues are recognized as traffic revenues when the transportation services are provided. The value of sold but unused tickets is included in the current liabilities as sales in advance of carriage. Revenue for expired air tickets are recognized when we believe that our obligation to fulfill the services is remote. Management performs periodic evaluations of sales in advance of carriage, and any adjustments made as a result of such evaluations, which can be significant, are included in the results of operations for the periods in which the evaluations are completed. These adjustments result from differences between the estimates of certain revenue transactions, timing of recognizing revenue for any expired air tickets and the related sales price, and are impacted by various factors, including a complex pricing structure and interline agreements throughout the industry, which affect the timing of revenue recognition.

     Fixed assets — We had approximately RMB30.2 billion of fixed assets as of December 31, 2004, including aircraft and flight equipment with a value of approximately RMB27.2 billion. As discussed in Note 2(j) to our audited consolidated financial statements, fixed assets are initially recognized at cost and are subsequently stated at revalued amount less accumulated depreciation. Under U.S. GAAP, our fixed assets are initially recognized at cost less accumulated depreciation and impairment charges, if any. Independent valuations are conducted at least every five years or sooner if considered necessary by our directors. In the intervening years, our directors would review the carrying value of the fixed assets from time to time and make adjustments if the carrying value is materially different from the fair value. Their recorded value is impacted by management judgment, including valuations performed by the management and/or independent professional valuers, estimates of useful lives, residual value and impairment charges. If different judgments or estimates had been utilized, material differences could have resulted in the amount of revaluation and related depreciation charges. We revalued our fixed assets on December 31, 2002 based on a market value basis. Our directors reviewed the carrying value of our company’s fixed assets as of December 31, 2004 and are of the opinion that the carrying amount of the fixed assets is not materially different from the estimated fair value and no impairment or changes in estimates of useful lives are necessary.

     Maintenance and overhaul costs — Following the adoption of IFRS 37 “Provisions, Contingent Liabilities and Contingent Assets” in the year ended December 31, 2000, major overhaul expenses for owned assets and assets under capital leases are no longer accrued but charged against operating profits as and when incurred. In respect of major overhauls for aircraft and engines under operating leases, the estimated costs of such overhauls are accrued and charged to operating profits over the estimated period between overhauls using the ratios of actual flying hours/cycles and estimated flying hours/cycles between overhauls. The

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amount of overhaul costs charged to operating profits is impacted by management’s estimates of the expected overhaul costs, which are largely based on past experience of overhauls of the same or similar models of aircraft and engines. Different judgments or estimates could significantly affect the estimated overhaul provision and materially impact our results of operations. As of December 31, 2003 and 2004, we estimated our aircraft overhaul provision to be RMB577 million and RMB715 million respectively. Our estimate includes a reversal of provisions made in previous periods in the amount of RMB59 million and RMB21 million during 2003 and 2004, respectively, primarily as a result of lower actual aircraft overhaul costs than the overhaul provisions made in previous periods.

     Retirement benefits — We participate in defined contribution retirement schemes organized by the municipal governments of respective provinces. We also operate and maintain defined retirement benefit plans which provides retirees with benefits including transportation subsidies, social activity subsidies as well as other welfare. As discussed in Note 2(f) to our audited consolidated financial statements, the cost of providing the aforementioned benefits in the defined retirement benefit plan is actuarially determined and recognized over the employees’ service period by utilizing various actuarial assumptions and using the projected unit credit method. These assumptions include, without limitation, the selection of discount rate, annual rate of increase of per capita benefit payment and employees’ turnover rate. The discount rate is based on management’s review of local high quality corporate bonds. The annual rate of increase of benefit payment is based on the general local economic conditions. The employees’ turnover rate is based on historical trends of our company. See Note 29 to our audited consolidated financial statements for additional information regarding the retirement benefit plans.

     A new staff housing policy, or the New Staff Housing Policy, was approved by our board of directors in October 2003. Under the New Staff Housing Policy, our staff who have not been allocated with any housing quarters or who have not been allocated with a quarter up to the minimum area as set out in the New Staff Housing Policy are entitled to a cash allowance. An eligible staff’s entitlement is calculated based on the years of services, area of quarter entitled and the unit price as set out in the New Staff Housing Policy. The total entitlement is principally vested over a period of 20 years. Upon the establishment of the New Staff Housing Policy, employees are entitled to a portion of the total entitlement already accrued based on his or her past service period. We recognized a provision of RMB341 million as related to our present obligation for our employee’s staff housing entitlements in 2003. Under the New Staff Housing Policy, we recognized a charge of RMB 29 million staff housing benefits charge for the year ended December 31, 2004.

     Deferred taxation — Deferred income tax is provided in full, using the liability method, for all significant temporary differences arising between the tax base of assets and liabilities and their carrying amounts in the financial statements. Currently applicable tax rates are used to determine deferred income tax. Deferred tax assets as related to tax losses are recognized to the extent that future taxable profit will be available against which the temporary differences can be utilized. For the year ended December 31, 2004, our company did not recognize RMB252 million of deferred tax assets relating to the tax losses available as management believes it was more likely than not that such tax losses would not be realized before they expire. See Note 7 to our audited consolidated financial statements for additional information regarding the deferred taxation.

Foreign Currency Transactions

     We have debts denominated in U.S. dollars, Japanese yen or Euro in addition to our debts denominated in Renminbi. We generate a significant amount of foreign currency revenues, including U.S. dollar, Japanese yen, Euro, Korean won, Hong Kong dollar, Singapore dollar, Australian dollar, and Thailand baht revenues, from ticket sales made in overseas offices. Pursuant to current foreign exchange regulations in China, we may retain our foreign currency earnings subject to the approval of SAFE,

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which are generally sufficient to satisfy our foreign currency liabilities payable within one year. We have also designated certain personnel to manage the foreign currency risks through derivative financial products such as forward foreign exchange contracts and interest rate swaps. We use interest rate swaps to reduce risks related to changes in market interest rates. As of December 31, 2004, the notional amount of the outstanding interest rate swap agreements was approximately US$437 million, compared to US$164 million as of December 31, 2003. These interest rate swap agreements will expire between 2006 and 2013. In addition, we use currency forward contracts to reduce risks related to changes in currency exchange rates in respect of ticket sales and expenses denominated in foreign currencies. As of December 31, 2004, the notional amount of the outstanding currency forward contracts was approximately US$226 million, compared to US$237 million as of December 31, 2003. These currency forward contracts will expire between 2006 and 2010.

     Pursuant to IFRS, our monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are required to be translated into Renminbi at the year end at exchange rates announced by the People’s Bank of China. The net exchange gains or losses are recognized and reflected in the income statement for the relevant year. Any fluctuation of the exchange rates between Renminbi and foreign currencies may materially adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations. The exchange rate between Renminbi and Japanese yen or Euro had experienced a significant level of fluctuation over the past two years. We had a net exchange gain of RMB21 million in 2004, compared to a net exchange loss of RMB70 million in 2003.

Taxation

     Since we changed our registered address to Pudong district in Shanghai on July 1, 2001, we are subject to income tax at the rate of 15%. Our effective tax rate, however, may be higher than the rate of 15% because some of our subsidiaries were incorporated in jurisdictions where the applicable income tax rate is 33% rather than 15%. We had carried forward tax losses of approximately RMB2,086 million and RMB2,330 million as of December 31, 2003 and 2004, which can be used to set off against future taxable income and will expire between 2006 and 2009.

Inflation

     In recent years, China has not experienced significant inflation. In 2004, inflation did not have a significant effect on our business. According to the National Bureau of Statistics of China, China’s overall national inflation rate, as represented by the general consumer price index, was approximately 1.2% and 3.9% in 2003 and 2004, respectively. In 2002, China experienced a slight deflation at a rate of 0.8%. Although neither the inflation nor the deflation in the past had any material adverse impact on our results of operations, we cannot assure you that the deflation or inflation of the Chinese economy in the future would not materially adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations.

U.S. GAAP Reconciliation

     Our audited consolidated financial statements are prepared in accordance with IFRS, which differs in certain material respects from U.S. GAAP. Note 39 to our audited consolidated financial statements provide a description of the principal differences between IFRS and U.S. GAAP as they relate to our company, and a reconciliation to U.S. GAAP of profit attributable to shareholders for the years ended, and owners’ equity as of December 31, 2003 and 2004.

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New Pronouncements

     IFRS

     For the year beginning January 1, 2005, the Group will adopt IFRS3 “Business Combinations”. IFRS3 will replace IAS22 “Business Combinations”. Under IFRS3, goodwill will be carried at cost less accumulated impairment losses and will no longer be amortized but instead, it will be tested annually for impairment. IFRS3 requires prospective adoption, and we do not believe that the adoption of IFRS3 would have a material effect on the Group’s financial position or results of operations.

     U.S.GAAP

     SFAS No. 151

     In November 2004, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued SFAS No. 151, “Inventory Costs — an amendment of ARB No. 43, Chapter 4.” SFAS No. 151 requires abnormal amounts of idle facility expense, freight, handling costs, and wasted materials (spoilage) be recognized as current-period charges. In addition, SFAS No. 151 requires that allocation of fixed production overheads to the costs of conversion be based on the normal capacity of the production facilities. SFAS No. 151 is effective for inventory costs incurred during fiscal years beginning after June 15, 2005. We do not believe that the adoption of SFAS No. 151 would have a material effect on the Group’s financial position or results of operations.

     SFAS No. 153

     In December 2004, FASB issued SFAS No. 153, “Exchanges of Non monetary Assets, an amendment of APB Opinion No. 29”. SFAS No. 153 requires exchanges of productive assets to be accounted for at fair value, rather than at carryover basis, unless (1) neither the asset received nor the asset surrendered has a fair value that is determinable within reasonable limits or (2) the transactions lack commercial substance. SFAS No. 153 is effective for non monetary asset exchanges occurring in fiscal periods beginning after June 15, 2005. We do not believe that the adoption of SFAS No. 153 would have a material effect on the Group’s financial position or results of operations.

     EITF Issue No. 03-01

     In March 2004, the Emerging Issues Task Force (“EITF”) reached a consensus on Issue No. 03-01 “The Meaning of Other-Than-Temporary Impairment and Its Application to Certain Investments” (“EITF No. 03-01”). EITF No. 03-01 provides recognition and measurement guidance on the meaning of other-than-temporary impairment and its application to certain investments carried at cost, including investments in marketable securities accounted for under SFAS No. 115, “Accounting for Certain Investments in Debt and Equity Securities”. Additionally, EITF No. 03-01 provides disclosure requirements of the investor when determining if an investment is impaired. The recognition and measurement guidance in EITF No. 03-01 has been postponed but the disclosure requirement under the EITF are effective for financial statements for 2004. We do not believe that the adoption of the recognition and measurement requirements of EITF No. 03-01 would have a material effect on the Group’s financial position or results of operations.

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     EITF Issue No. 02-14

     In June 2004, the EITF reached a consensus on Issue No. 02-14 “Whether the Equity Method of Accounting Applies When an Investor Does Not Have an Investment in Voting Stock of an Investee but Exercises Significant Influence through Other Means” (“EITF No. 02-14”). EITF No. 02-14 provides guidance that an investor should only apply the equity method of accounting when it has investments in either common stock or in-substance common stock of a corporation, provided that the investor has the ability to exercise significant influence over the operating and financial policies of the investee. The EITF defined in-substance common stock as an investment that has risk and reward characteristics that are substantially similar to common stock. EITF No. 02-14 is effective for reporting periods beginning after September 15, 2004. We do not believe that the adoption of EITF No. 02-14 would have a material effect on the Group’s financial position or results of operations.

     EITF Issue No. 04-01

     In September 2004, the EITF reached a consensus on Issue No. 04-01 “Accounting for Pre-existing Relationships between the Parties to a Business Combination” (“EITF No. 04-01”) and states that the consummation of a business combination between two parties that have a pre-existing contractual relationship should be evaluated to determine if a settlement of the pre-existing contractual relationship occurred. Additionally, the EITF provides guidance on the measurement and recognition of the pre-existing relationship. The provisions of EITF No. 04-01 are applicable to business combinations completed in reporting periods after October 13, 2004. We do not believe that the adoption of EITF No. 04-01 would have a material effect on the Group’s financial position or results of operations.

Item 6.  Directors, Senior Management and Employees.

A.  Directors and Senior Management

     The following table sets forth certain information concerning our directors, executive officers and supervisors as of June 20, 2005. None of our directors, supervisors or members of our senior management was selected or chosen as a result of our arrangement or understanding with customers, suppliers or others. There is no family relationship between any director, supervisor or executive officer and any other director, supervisor or executive officer of our company.

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Name   Age   Shares Owned   Position
Li Fenghua(1)
  55   0   Chairman of the Board of Directors
Ye Yigan
  62   0   Non-executive Director
Cao Jianxiong
  46   2,800 A shares   Director
Wan Mingwu
  58   0   Director and Vice President
Zhong Xiong
  59   2,800 A shares   Director
Luo Zhuping
  52   2,800 A shares   Director and Company Secretary
Hu Honggao
  51   0   Independent Non-executive Director
Peter Lok
  68   0   Independent Non-executive Director
Wu Baiwang
  62   0   Independent Non-executive Director
Zhou Ruijin
  66   0   Independent Non-executive Director
Xie Rong
  53   0   Independent Non-executive Director
Li Wenxin
  56   0   Chairman of the Supervisory Committee
Ba Shengji
  46   2,800 A shares   Supervisor
Yang Xingen
  52   0   Supervisor
Yang Jie
  35   0   Supervisor
Liu Jiashun
  48   0   Supervisor
Luo Chaogeng(2)
  55   0   President
Wu Yulin
  56   2,800 A shares   Vice President(3)
Wu Jiuhong
  53   0   Vice President
Yang Xu
  44   1,000 A shares   Vice President
Zhou Liguo
  56   0   Vice President
Zhang Jianzhong
  50   0   Vice President
Tong Guozhao(4)
  46   0   Vice President
Luo Weide
  49   0   Chief Financial Officer
___________________________________________________________
 
(1)   Mr. Li served as the Chairman of our company as of October 28, 2004.
(2)   Mr. Luo served as the President of our company as of September 7, 2004.
(3)   Mr. Wu ceased to be a vice president of our company as of April 1, 2005.
(4)   Mr. Tong served as a vice president of our company as of April 1, 2005.

Directors and Executive Officers

     Mr. Li Fenghua is the incumbent chairman of our board of director, president and deputy party secretary of CEA Holding. Mr. Li joined the civil aviation industry in 1968 and was deputy head, and subsequently became head, of the 26th Fleet of the CAAC from 1987 to 1992. From 1992 to 1996, Mr. Li served as vice-president, and then became president, of the Hubei branch of China Southern Airlines (Group). Since 1996, he became vice-president of China Southern Airlines Company Limited and vice-president of China Southern Airlines (Group). In 2000, Mr. Li became party secretary and vice-president of China Southern Airlines

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Company Limited. From October 2002 to September 2004, he served as the President of our company and vice-president of CEA Holding. In September 2004, he became president and deputy party secretary of CEA Holding. Mr. Li graduated from the China Civil Aviation Senior Aviation School and holds the title of First Class Pilot.

     Mr. Ye Yigan is currently a director. Mr. Ye joined the civil aviation industry in 1965. From 1983, he served as deputy chief engineer of the aircraft repair factory of the CAAC Shanghai Bureau. From 1985, he served as head of the aircraft repair factory of the CAAC Shanghai Bureau. In December 1987 he became deputy head of the CAAC East China Bureau. From 1992, he served as president and deputy party secretary of China Aviation Supplies Corp. From June 1996, he served as head and party secretary of the CAAC East China Bureau. From April 2001 to September 2002, he served as president and party secretary of EA Group. From June 2001 he became chairman of our board of director. From October 2002 to September 2004, he was president and deputy party secretary of CEA Holding. Mr. Ye graduated from the China Civil Aviation Institute in Tianjin, with a major in aircraft instrument maintenance. He holds the title of Senior Engineer.

     Mr. Cao Jianxiong is currently a director of our company. Mr. Cao joined the civil aviation industry in 1982. From 1992, he served as president of Shanghai Eastern Airlines Development Company and in 1994 he became president of Eastern Airlines Futures Brokerage Company. In early 1996 he served as assistant president of our company. From 1997, he served as vice president and chief financial officer of our company. Since December 1999, he has served as vice president of EA Group. Since October 2002, he served as vice president of CEA Holding, and he also was the party secretary of China Eastern Air Northwest Company from December 2002 to September 2004. Mr. Cao graduated from the Civil Aviation Management Institute with a major in labour economics. Mr. Cao also received a Master’s degree in global economics from Eastern China Normal University’s Department of International Finance. Mr. Cao holds the title of Economist.

     Mr. Wan Mingwu is currently a director as well as our company’s party secretary and vice president. Mr. Wan joined the civil aviation industry in 1968. From 1983 to 1990 he was deputy section chief and section chief of the cadre section of the political department of the CAAC Shenyang Bureau. From 1990 to 1992 he was section chief of the personnel section of China Northern Airlines. From 1992 to 1995 he was deputy party secretary of China Northern Airlines and from 1995 to 2000 he was party secretary of China Northern Airlines. Since December 2000 he has been party secretary and vice president of our company. Mr. Wan graduated from Civil Aviation Mechanics Vocational School. Mr. Wan is a college graduate and holds the title of Senior Political Work Instructor.

     Mr. Zhong Xiong is currently a director of our company. Mr. Zhong joined the civil aviation industry in 1970. From 1986 to 1988, he was vice president of Transportation Services Company of the CAAC Shanghai Bureau and was president of the sales and transportation department of China Eastern Airlines from 1988 to 1992. From 1992 to April 1995, he was vice president of our company. From May 1995 to April 2002, Mr. Zhong has been vice president of our company, and has become the Chairman of the workers’ union of CEA Holding since April 2002. He graduated in 1970 from the English Department of Liaoning Teacher’s College and holds the title of Economist.

     Mr. Luo Zhuping is a director of our company, the secretary of our board of director and the head of the secretariat of our board of director. Mr. Luo joined CEA in 1988. He was deputy chief and then chief of the enterprise management department of China Eastern Airlines from 1992 to 1997. He was deputy head of the share system office from 1993 to 1996. In 1997, he became the secretary of our board of director and the head of the secretariat of our board of director. He became a director of our company in June 2004. Mr. Luo graduated from the Faculty of Philosophy and the Faculty of Law of Anhui University in 1979 and

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1985, respectively. In 1994, Mr. Luo received a Master’s degree from the Economics Department of Eastern China Normal University, majoring in global economics. In 1998, he participated in the training programme for senior managers of large state-owned enterprises organised in the U.S.A. by the State Economic and Trade Commission and Morgan Stanley.

     Mr. Hu Honggao is currently an independent non-executive director of our company. He is the vice-dean and professor of law at Fu Dan University School of Law as well as the head of the Civil and Commercial Law Research Centre of Fu Dan University, supervising doctoral students majoring in civil and commercial law at Fu Dan University. He is also a senior lawyer at the Shanghai Shen Yang Law Office. Mr. Hu is a managing director of China Commercial Law Research Society, a managing director of China Economic Law Research Society, a member of the Legislative Consultation Committee of the Shanghai Municipal Government, a member of the Legislative Profession Consultation Committee of the Shanghai Standing Committee of the People’s Congress, vice-chairman of the Shanghai Economic Law Research Society and an arbitrator of the Shanghai Arbitration Committee.

     Mr. Peter Lok is currently an independent non-executive director of our company. Mr. Lok went to the College of Air Traffic Control in England for further studies after joining the Hong Kong Civil Aviation Department in December 1956. He studied air transport, air accident investigation and administration and management of civil aviation in England from 1968 to 1973. In 1982, he became assistant director of the Hong Kong Civil Aviation Department. From 1985, during his time in office at the air services division of the Hong Kong Civil Aviation Department, he participated in negotiations with various countries regarding air traffic rights. He became deputy director in 1988, and subsequently became director in 1990 of the Hong Kong Civil Aviation Department. Mr. Lok retired in 1996 and has served as a consultant at the Flights Standards Department of the CAAC. Mr. Lok is the first Chinese director of the Hong Kong Civil Aviation Department and was at one time an instructor of the College of Air Traffic Control of Hong Kong.

     Mr. Wu Baiwang is currently an independent non-executive director of our company. Mr. Wu joined the civil aviation industry in 1959 and was deputy fleet leader and subsequently became fleet leader of the 12th Fleet of the CAAC from 1976 to 1984. From 1984 to 1992, Mr. Wu was deputy head and subsequently became head of the CAAC Jilin Bureau. From 1992 to 1995, Mr. Wu was head and party secretary of the CAAC Northeastern Bureau. From September 1995 to 1998, he became president of China General Aviation Corporation. He was the party secretary and vice-president of Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport Group Company and the Chairman of the board of directors of Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport Company Limited from 1998 to September 2003. Mr. Wu graduated from Chinese Civil Aviation School in 1965 and holds the title of First Class Pilot.

     Mr. Zhou Ruijin is currently an independent non-executive director of our company. Mr. Zhou was deputy editor-in-chief and the East China regional director of the People’s Daily. From 1988 to 1993 Mr. Zhou was party secretary and deputy editor-in-chief of the Liberation Daily. From April 1993 to 1996 he was deputy editor-in-chief of the People’s Daily and from 1996 to 2000 he was deputy editor-in-chief and the East China regional director of the People’s Daily. After retired, he became vice-chairman of the China Productivity Council and Chairman of the Shanghai Productivity Council. Mr. Zhou graduated from the journalism department of Fudan University in 1962.

     Mr. Xie Rong is currently an independent director of our company and a certified accountant in the People’s Republic of China. Mr. Xie is the deputy head of Shanghai National Accounting Institute. He taught at the faculty of accounting of Shanghai University of Finance and Economics from December, 1985 to March, 1997, and had been an assistant professor, a professor, a doctorate-tutor and the deputy dean of the faculty. Mr. Xie was a partner of KPMG Huazhen from December, 1997 to October, 2002, and has, since October, 2002, been the deputy head of Shanghai National Accounting Institute. Mr. Xie graduated from Shanghai University of Finance and Economics and has a doctorate degree in Economics.

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     Mr. Luo Chaogeng is currently the President and deputy party secretary of our company. Mr. Luo joined the civil aviation industry in 1970. Mr. Luo was a flight mechanic of the instructing team of the Lanzhou Civil Aviation Administration Bureau from August 1970 to August 1972. From August 1972 to March 1989, he was the flight mechanic of the 8th Civil Aviation Flight Team. From March 1989 to August 1994, he was the deputy commissar, commissar and party secretary of the Xian Flight Team of China Northwest Airlines. From August 1994 to October 1996, he was the party secretary of the aircraft maintenance plant of China Northwest Airlines. From October 1996 to March 1997, he was the party secretary and deputy general manager of the aircraft maintenance base of China Northwest Airlines. From March 1997 to December 2000, he was the deputy director of the Civil Aviation Administration Bureau of China Northwest Airlines. From December 2000 to November 2001, Mr. Luo was the general manager of Yunnan Airlines and the director and deputy party secretary of Civil Aviation Administration Bureau of Yunan. From November 2001 to September 2002, he was the general manager and deputy party secretary of Yunnan Airlines. From September 2002 to September 2004, he has also been serving concurrently as the general manager of Yunan Airlines. From September 2004 to the present, he has been the party constitution member and vice president of CEA Holding, President and deputy party secretary of our company. From 1998 to June 2001, Mr. Luo has been studying the postgraduate course for incumbent leading cadres in professional economics and management at the Central Party School of Shaanxi. Mr. Luo has obtained first class competency in flight mechanics.

     Mr. Wu Yulin ceased to be a vice president of our company as of April 1, 2005. Mr. Wu joined the civil aviation industry in 1966. From 1975 to 1985, he was the deputy head, and from 1985 to 1988, the head, of the 5th Fleet of the CAAC. In 1988, Mr. Wu became the head of our company’s Shanghai Fleet. From 1989 to 1994, Mr. Wu was the deputy chief, and from 1994 to 1995, the chief, of the Aviation Skills and Management Department of China Eastern Airlines. He was the director of China Eastern Airlines’ Safety Supervision Department from 1995 to 1997, deputy chief pilot and head of the Safety Supervision Department of our company from 1997 to 1998 and president and party secretary of the Hebei Branch office of our company from 1998 to 1999. Mr. Wu was a vice president of our company from December 1999 to April 2005. Mr. Wu graduated from Chinese Civil Aviation School and holds the title of First Class Pilot.

     Mr. Wu Jiuhong is a vice president of our company. Mr. Wu joined the civil aviation industry in 1971. From 1968 to 1971 he served with the 60th division under the 20th army. From 1971 to 1973 he studied aviation machinery at the Civil Aviation College. From 1973 to 1981 he was with the 18th Fleet of the CAAC’s 2nd General Fleet. From 1985 to 1988 he served as Communist Youth League secretary and deputy head of the political department of the CAAC’s Jiangxi Bureau. From 1988 to 1995 he concurrently served as deputy party secretary and disciplinary committee secretary of the Cabin Service Department of China Eastern Airlines. From 1995 to 1997 he served as head of our company’s publicity department. From 1997 to 2002, he served as party secretary and executive vice president of the Company’s Jiangxi branch. He became a vice president of our company in April 2002. He also became the party secretary of CEA Northwest since September 2004. Mr. Wu has completed postgraduate studies and is a qualified senior political work instructor.

     Mr. Yang Xu is a vice president of our company. Mr. Yang joined the civil aviation industry in 1982. Mr. Yang was president and party secretary of the overhaul department at the aircraft maintenance base of China Eastern Airlines from 1993 to 1997, the vice president of the aircraft maintenance base of our company from 1997 to 1998, and president and deputy party secretary of the aircraft maintenance base of our company from 1998 to 1999. Mr. Yang has been the chief engineer of our company since December 1999. Since April 2002, he served as vice president of our company and general manager of our company’s

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aircraft engineering department. Mr. Yang graduated from the Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics with a major in aircraft manufacture and holds the title of Senior Engineer.

     Mr. Zhou Liguo is currently a vice president of our company. He joined the civil aviation industry in 1981, and attended the Air Force Changchun First Reserve Flight School from 1966 to 1967 and the Harbin First Navigation School from 1967 to 1969. Mr. Zhou performed his military service with the 34th Division of the Air Force from 1969 to 1981, and served as squadron leader in the 5th Fleet of the Civil Aviation from 1984 to 1988. Mr. Zhou was deputy fleet leader of China Eastern Airlines’ Shanghai Fleet from 1988 to 1992, and leader of the said fleet from 1992 to 1997. From 1997 to 2000, he served as general manager and deputy party secretary of our company’s General Flight Department. In 2000 he became assistant president of our company, and from 2000 to 2003 he served as president and deputy party secretary of China Cargo Airlines Co., Ltd. Mr. Zhou was our company’s chief economic official from December 2003 to April 2004. He became a vice president of our company since April 2004. Mr. Zhou received university education and holds the title of First Class Pilot.

     Mr. Zhang Jianzhong is a vice president of our company. Mr. Zhang joined the civil aviation industry in 1982. From April 1982 to December 1987, he was an assistant of the Shanghai Civil Aviation Planning Bureau. From December 1987 to April 1990, he was the deputy director of the planning department of Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport. From April 1990 to January 1996, he was the director of the planning department of China Eastern Airlines. From January 1996 to April 1999, he was the manager of the sales and marketing department of our company. From April 1999 to April 2003, he was the Assistant to the President of our company. From September 2000 to December 2001, he served concurrently as the director of the office of strategic study of our company. From December 2001 to May 2003, he served concurrently as the general manager of the computer information centre of our company. From April 2003 to June 2004, he was the chief economic official of our company. From May 2003 to June 2004, he served concurrently as the general manager of the sales and marketing department of our company. Since June 2004, he has been a vice president of our company. Mr. Zhang graduated from the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering of Zhejiang University and Professional Study in Economics and Management at Fudan University, from which he obtained a master’s degree.

     Mr. Tong Guozhao is a vice president of our company. Mr. Tong joined the civil aviation industry in 1980. From January 1980 to May 1992, Mr. Tong had been the deputy pilot, chief pilot and captain respectively of the flight team of Urumqi Civil Aviation Bureau. From May 1992 to April 1997, he had been the captain, sub-team leader, deputy squadron leader and squadron leader of the Shanghai Flight Team of China Eastern Airlines. From April 1997 to May 1998, he was a vice president of the Shanghai Flight Team of our company. From May 1998 to March 2001, he was the president of the Safety Monitoring Department of our company. From March 2001 to January 2004, he was the president of the Anhui branch company of our company. From January 2004 to September 2004, he was the president of the China Cargo Airlines Co., Ltd. and deputy party secretary. From September 2004 to April 2005, he was the president of our company cum president of the Operation Control Centre. Since April 2005, he has been a vice president of our company. Mr. Tong graduated from the Civil Aviation School and holds the title of Second Class Pilot.

     Mr. Luo Weide is our company’s chief financial officer. In 1976 Mr. Luo began his military service at the Air Force in Liuan Airport. From 1979 to 1991 he successively served as department head and deputy head of the Putuo branch of the Shanghai Municipal Tax Bureau. From 1991 to 1993 he concurrently served as head of the finance bureau and the state asset bureau of Putuo District, Shanghai. From 1993 to 1998 he successively served as deputy chief accountant, chief accountant and executive deputy president of Shanghai Jinqiao (Group) Co., Ltd. From 1998 to 2000, he was vice president of Shanghai Pudong

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Development (Group) Co., Ltd. and chairman of the board and president of Pudong Finance Company. Since 2000 he has been chief financial officer of our company. Mr. Luo graduated from the Sino-European International Business School in 1999 with a Master’s degree in business administration. He holds the titles of Senior Accountant and Senior Economist.

Supervisory Committee

     As required by the PRC Company Law and our articles of association, our company has a supervisory committee, or the Supervisory Committee, whose primary duty is the supervision of our senior management, including our board of directors, managers and senior officers. The Supervisory Committee consists of five supervisors.

     Mr. Li Wenxin is currently Chairman of our company’s supervisory committee. Mr. Li joined the civil aviation industry in 1970. From 1992 to 1995 he was secretary of the disciplinary committee of China General Aviation Company. From 1995 to 1996 he was deputy party secretary of China General Aviation Corporation. From 1996 to 1998 he was deputy president of China General Aviation Corporation and from February 1998 to June 2000, he assumed the post of party secretary and executive deputy president of the Shanxi branch of our company. From June 2000 to September 2002, he served as deputy party secretary and secretary of the disciplinary committee of CEA Holding. Since October 2002, he served as party secretary and vice president of CEA Holding. He has been the Chairman of the supervisory committee of our company since June 2000. Mr. Li received university education and is a qualified Senior Political Work Instructor.

     Mr. Ba Shengji is currently a supervisor. Mr. Ba joined the civil aviation industry in 1978. From 1980, Mr. Ba was an accountant at the Department of Finance of the CAAC Shanghai Bureau. From 1988, he served as the section head of the Department of Finance of China Eastern Airlines. In 1993, Mr. Ba became the deputy head of the Department of Finance of China Eastern Airlines. In March 1997, Mr. Ba became the chief officer of the auditing office of our company. From December 1997 to September 2002, he served as the head of EA Group’s auditing department. Since October 2002, he became the head of CEA Holding’s auditing department. Since January 2003, he concurrently served as chief of CEA Holding’s disciplinary committee’s administrative office. Mr. Ba received university education and is a qualified auditor.

     Mr. Yang Xingen is currently a supervisor. Mr. Yang was the deputy political committee member of the 1st flying battalion and political committee member of the 2nd battalion of 105th Regiment, 35th Division from July 1980 to July 1986. From July 1986 to October 1997, he was the party branch secretary and manager of China Eastern Airlines Advertisement Service Company respectively. From October 1997 to April 2000, he was the party deputy secretary, secretary for the disciplinary committee and political director of the Shanghai flying squadron of our company. From April 2000 to August 2002, he was the deputy secretary for the disciplinary committee cum director of the office for discipline committee and director of the supervision office. From August 2002 to now, he has been the deputy secretary for the disciplinary committee of our company. Mr. Yang has been educated to the tertiary level. He was graduated from the faculty of mechanics of the Second Aviation Mechanics School of the air force.

     Ms. Yang Jie is currently a supervisor. Ms. Yang joined the civil aviation industry in 1992. From 1996 to 1998 she was electronic technology supervisor of the technology office and Communist Youth League secretary of the overhaul department at the aircraft maintenance base of our company. From 1998 to September 2000 she was Communist Youth League deputy secretary of the aircraft maintenance base of our company. She was the deputy secretary of our company’s Communist Youth League from September 2000 to July 2002, and the secretary of our company’s Communist Youth League from August 2002 to

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January 2003. Since January 2003, she has been the secretary of the Communist Youth League of CEA Holding, as well as the secretary of the Communist Youth League of our company. Ms. Yang graduated with a major in aviation electronics from the China Civil Aviation Academy and a major in Business Administration from Sunny Management Academy at Donghua University and she received a master degree in Business Administration. She is also a qualified engineer.

     Mr. Liu Jiashun is currently a supervisor. From 1993 to 1999 Mr. Liu was party secretary, deputy president and secretary of the disciplinary committee secretary of China Aviation Fuel Hainan Company, as well as chairman of the board and president of Hainan Nanyang Air Transport Co., Ltd. From 1997 to 1999 he was also in charge of fuel supply engineering at Haikou’s Meilan Airport and served as director of Meilan Airport Co., Ltd. and vice chairman of the board and president of Meilan Industrial Co., Ltd. From 1999 to 2000 he was deputy party secretary of China Aviation Fuel East China Company and he is currently deputy party secretary and secretary of the disciplinary committee of the East China branch of China Aviation Fuel Company. Mr. Liu is a former graduate student and has qualifications as a political work instructor.

B.  Compensation

     The aggregate amount of cash compensation paid by us to our directors, supervisors and the senior management during 2004 for services performed as directors, supervisors and officers or employees of our company was approximately RMB711,000. In addition, directors and supervisors who are also officers or employees of our company receive certain other in-kind benefits which are provided to all of our employees. our company does not have any bonus or profit sharing plan or any stock option plan.

C.  Board Practices

     All directors and supervisors serve a term of three years or until such later date as their successors are elected or appointed. The directors and supervisors may serve consecutive terms. Two of the supervisors are employee representatives appointed by our employees, and the rest are appointed by the shareholders. The following table sets forth the number of years our directors, executive officers and supervisors have held their position and the expiration of their current term.

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Name   Held Position Since   Expiration of Term
Li Fenghua
  June 20, 2003   June 18, 2007
Ye Yigan
  June 30, 2001   June 18, 2007
Wan Mingwu
  June 30, 2001   June 18, 2007
Cao Jianxiong
  June 30, 2001   June 18, 2007
Zhong Xiong
  June 30, 2001   June 18, 2007
Luo Zhuping
  June 18, 2004   June 18, 2007
Hu Honggao
  June 30, 2001   June 18, 2007
Peter Lok
  June 30, 2001   June 18, 2007
Wu Baiwang
  June 30, 2001   June 18, 2007
Zhou Ruijin
  June 30, 2001   June 18, 2007
Xie Rong
  June 20, 2003   June 18, 2007
Li Wenxing
  June 30, 2001   June 18, 2007
Ba Shengji
  June 30, 2001   June 18, 2007
Yang Xingen
  June 18, 2004   June 18, 2007
Yang Jie
  June 30, 2001   June 18, 2007
Liu Jiashun
  June 30, 2001   June 18, 2007
Luo Chaogeng
  September 7, 2004   June 18, 2007
Wu Yulin
  June 30, 2001   April 1, 2005
Wu Jiuhong
  April 4, 2002   June 18, 2007
Yang Xu
  April 4, 2002   June 18, 2007
Zhou Liguo
  April 5, 2004   June 18, 2007
Zhang Jianzhong
  June 18, 2004   June 18, 2007
Tang Guozhao
  April 1, 2005   June 18, 2007
Luo Weide
  June 30, 2001   June 18, 2007

     None of our directors, supervisors or members of our senior management has entered into any agreement or reached any understanding with us requiring our company to pay any benefits as a result of termination of their services.

     Our board of directors established the audit committee in August 2000 in accordance with the listing rules of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. The audit committee currently consists of Mr. Xie Rong, an independent non-executive director and the chairman of the audit committee, Mr. Hu Honggao, an independent non-executive director of our company, and Mr. Wu Baiwang, an independent non-executive director of our company. The audit committee is authorized to, among other things, examine our internal control system and review auditing procedures and financial reports with our auditors. Subject to the approval of the shareholders’ meeting, the audit committee of our company is also directly responsible for the appointment, compensation, retention and oversight of our outside auditors, including resolving disagreements between management and the auditor regarding financial reporting. The outside auditors report directly to the audit committee. The audit committee holds at least four meetings each year. The audit committee has established procedures for the receipt, retention and treatment of complaints received by our company regarding accounting, internal accounting controls or auditing matters, and procedures for the confidential, anonymous submission by employees of concerns regarding questionable accounting or auditing matters. The audit committee has the authority to engage independent counsel and other advisors, as it determines necessary to carry out its duties. our company provides appropriate funding, as determined by the audit committee, for payment of compensation to the outside

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auditors, advisors employed by the audit committee, if any, and ordinary administrative expenses of the audit committee that are necessary or appropriate in carrying out its duties.

     Our remuneration and review committee, established by our board of directors in April 2002, consists of Mr. Zhou Ruijin, an independent non-executive director and the chairman of the remuneration and review committee, Mr. Hu Hongaao, an independent non-executive director and Mr. Peter Lok, an independent non-executive director. The remuneration and review committee is authorized to review the performance of our directors, supervisors and management as well as determine their annual compensation level. The remuneration and review committee shall submit to our board of directors or shareholders’ meeting for approval compensation plans and oversee the implementation of approved compensation plans. The remuneration and review committee may consult financial, legal or other outside professional firms in carrying out its duties. The remuneration and review committee shall meet once year, within twenty days after the announcement of annual results.

D.  Employees

     Through arrangements with CEA Holding and others, we provide certain benefits to our employees, including housing, retirement benefits and hospital, maternity, disability and dependent medical care benefits. Our company does not have any bonus or profit sharing plan or any stock option plan. See Notes 29 and 30 to our audited consolidated financial statements. Our employees are members of a labor association which represents employees with respect to labor disputes and certain other employee matters. We believe that we maintain good relations with our employees and with their labor association. The table below sets forth the number of our employees as of December 31, 2002, 2003 and 2004, respectively:

                         
    As of December 31,  
    2002     2003     2004  
Pilots
    1,423       1,516       1,699  
Flight attendants
    1,531       1,817       2,732  
Maintenance personal
    2,826       2,696       3,283  
Sales and marketing
    1,799       2,172       2,546  
Other
    8,140       8,234       10,557  
 
                 
Total
    15,719       16,435       20,817  
 
                 

E.  Share Ownership

     See Item 6.A and Item 6.B above.

Item 7.  Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions.

A.  Major Shareholders

     The following table sets forth certain information regarding ownership of our capital stock as of December 31, 2004 by all persons who were known to us to be the beneficial owners of 5% or more of our capital stock:

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            Amount     Percent of     Percent of Total  
Title of Class   Identity of Person or Group     Owned     Class     Shares  
Domestic Shares
  CEA Holding     3,000,000,000       90.91 %     61.64 %
H Shares
  HKSCC Nominees Limited(1)     1,483,815,163       94.69 %     30.49 %
___________________________________________________________
 
(1)   As custodian of the Depositary for American Depositary Shares representing H Shares.

     CEA Holding has held 61.64% of our issued and outstanding capital stock since its establishment in October 2002, and neither it nor HKSCC Nominees Limited has any voting rights different from those of other shareholders. We are not aware of any arrangement which may at a subsequent date result in a change of control of our company.

     As of December 31, 2004 and June 20 , 2005, there were 1,566,950,000 H shares issued and outstanding. As of December 31, 2004 and June 20, 2005, there were, respectively, 75 and 72 registered holders of American depositary receipts evidencing 1,226,940 and 1,215,020 ADSs. Since certain of the ADSs are held by nominees, the above number may not be representative of actual number of U.S. beneficial holders of ADSs or the number of ADSs beneficially held by U.S. persons.

     Our company is currently a majority-owned subsidiary of CEA Holding. CEA Holding itself is a wholly state-owned enterprise under the administrative control of China State-owned Assets Supervisions and Administration Commission, or CSASAC. CEA Holding’s shareholding in our company is in the form of ordinary domestic shares, through which it, under the supervision of the CSASAC, enjoys the shareholders’ rights and benefits on behalf of the Chinese government.

B.  Related Party Transactions

Relationship with CEA Holding and Associated Companies

     We enter into transactions from time to time with CEA Holding and its subsidiaries. For a description of such transactions, see Note 34 to our audited consolidated financial statements.

     (A) De-merger Agreement

     EA Group and our company entered into a de-merger agreement on April 14, 1995, or the De-merger Agreement, for the purpose of defining and allocating the assets and liabilities between EA Group and our company. To give effect to the intent and provisions of the De-merger Agreement, EA Group and our company have entered into a Supplemental Agreement to the De-merger Agreement, dated December 5, 1996, whereby the parties agreed to indemnify each other in respect of all claims arising from or in respect of the assets and liabilities which they have respectively assumed pursuant to the restructuring and by reference to the division of assets and liabilities determined as of January 1, 1994. After the establishment of CEA Holding in October 2002, CEA Holding has assumed the rights and liabilities of EA Group under the De-merger Agreement.

     (B) Acquisition of Assets from CEA Holding

     We have agreed to acquired from CEA certain assets and liabilities from CEA Holding relating to the aviation businesses of CEA Northwest and CEA Yunnan. See the section headed “Item 4. Information on the Company — History and Development of the Company”.

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     (C) Related Business Transactions

     As our company and EA Group and its subsidiaries were a single group prior to the restructuring in 2002, certain arrangements among us have continued after the restructuring and the establishment of CEA Holding. Each of these agreements is non-exclusive, although we do not currently intend to enter into any equivalent contracts with third parties.

            (i)   China Eastern Aviation Import and Export Corporation, or CEAIEC, a 55% owned subsidiary of CEA Holding.

     Our company and CEAIEC have extended our agreement dated January 7, 1997 regarding the import and export of aircraft-related accessories, machinery and equipment for a term of ten years commencing from June 30, 1999. For the year ended December 31, 2004, the amounts paid by us to CEAIEC for the import and export of aircraft-related accessories, machinery and equipment were approximately RMB5,328 million, inclusive of handling charges of 0.1% to 2% above the contract prices paid to CEAIEC which were approximately RMB34 million in total.

     We have certain balances with CEAIEC, which are unsecured, interest-free and have no fixed term of repayment. See Note [34(a)(ii)] to our audited consolidated financial statements for more details.

            (ii)   Eastern Aviation Advertising Service Co., Ltd., or Eastern Advertising, a 55% owned subsidiary of CEA Holding.

     Our company and Eastern Advertising have extended our agreement dated December 30, 1996 regarding the provision of advertising services for a term of ten years commencing from June 30, 1999. For the year ended December 31, 2004, the amounts paid by us to Eastern Advertising for advertising services were approximately RMB6 million.

            (iii)   China Eastern Air Catering Investment Co. Ltd., or China Eastern Catering, a 55% subsidiary of CEA Holding. The remaining 45% is owned by our company.

     For the year ended December 31, 2004, the amounts paid by us to a number of subsidiaries of China Eastern Catering (including Shanghai Eastern Air Catering Co. Ltd.) for the supply of in-flight meals were approximately RMB 188 million.

     China Eastern Air Catering acquired certain subsidiaries from CEA Holding in an aggregate consideration of RMB264 million during the year ended December 31, 2004.

            (iv)   Eastern Air Group Finance Co. Ltd., or Eastern Finance, which is 75% owned and controlled by CEA Holding and other subsidiaries of CEA Holding.

     Our company has extended our agreement with Eastern Finance dated January 8, 1997 regarding the provision of banking and other financial services such as credit facilities, financial guarantees and credit references for a term of ten years commencing from June 30, 1999. Pursuant to this agreement, we may place deposits with, and obtain loans from, Eastern Finance. We had short-term deposits placed with Eastern Finance as of December 31, 2004 amounting to RMB414 million, which paid interest at 0.72% per annum. In addition, our company had short-term loans of RMB141 million from Eastern Finance. During the year ended December 31, 2004, the weighted average interest rate on the loan was 4.5% per annum.

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     Under this agreement, it has been agreed that (a) all funds that we deposit with Eastern Finance will be deposited by Eastern Finance with the Bank of Industry and Commerce, Bank of Communications, Bank of Agriculture, China Construction Bank or other banks of superior creditworthiness and (b) Eastern Finance will not at any time have outstanding loans to other subsidiaries in the CEA Holding in excess of the amount representing the aggregate of (i) deposits received from entities other than us, (ii) Eastern Finance’s shareholders’ equity and (iii) capital reserves.

            (v)   TravelSky Technology Ltd., which is 33% owned by CEA Holding.

     We pay ticket reservation service charges to TravelSky, which is 33% owned by CEA Holding, in connection with our use of its computer reservation system. For the year ended December 31, 2004, we paid ticket reservation service charges to TravelSky of approximately RMB86 million.

            (vi)   Shanghai Eastern Aviation Equipment Manufacturing Corporation, or SEAEMC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of CEA Holding.

     Our company and SEAEMC have extended our agreement dated December 31, 1996 regarding the sale and purchase of aviation equipment for a term of ten years commencing from June 30, 1999. SEAEMC was established in 1996. SEAEMC’s predecessor was Shanghai Civil Aviation Maintenance and Engineering Company. For the year ended December 31, 2004, the amounts paid by us to SEAEMC for the sale and purchase of aviation equipment were approximately RMB15 million.

            (vii)   Ticket Sales

     We have entered into arrangements for the sale of our air tickets with several subsidiaries of CEA Holding. In accordance with the industry practice, we have not previously entered into any agreement with such companies in relation to the provision of such agency services. The agents charge a commission at a rate prescribed by the CAAC and the International Aviation Transportation Association, as applicable, for each of our air ticket sold, that is, 3% for domestic tickets and 9% for international tickets. In addition to these agents, we have other air ticket sales agents in China who charge the same amount of commission. These agents also act as air ticket sales agents for other Chinese airlines and charge the same rates of commission as in our case.

     (C) Property Leases

     Our company and EA Group had entered into an office lease agreement dated January 7, 1997 in respect of office premises located at 2550 Hong Qiao Road, Shanghai, China. The lease term is one year and renewable by the parties, subject to mutual agreement with respect to rental terms. The total rental payment is approximately RMB158,342 per month. In addition, our company and EA Group had entered into a staff dormitory lease agreement dated December 31, 1996, pursuant to which EA Group had agreed to enter into lease arrangements with our employees for dormitories in Shanghai, Anhui Province, Shandong Province and Jiangxi Province. The term of the lease and the rental payments are set in accordance with Chinese regulations and the rate prescribed by the Shanghai Municipal Government. CEA Holding has assumed EA Group’s rights and liabilities under those lease agreements after its establishment.

     (D) Aircraft Leases

     During the year ended December 31, 2004, our company received from CEA Northwest RMB83 million under an aircraft sublease arrangement with respect to six A320 aircraft. For more information, see Note 34(c)(i) to our audited consolidated financial statements. In addition, we paid CEA Norwest and CEA Yunnan RMB199 million and RMB 86 million, respectively, under certain aircraft operating lease arrangements.

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     (E) Rescission of certain related party lease arrangements

     We had entered into certain lease arrangements to lease 3 A310 aircraft from CEA Northwest and 3 Bae146 aircraft from Nanjing Airlines Co., Ltd., a subsidiary of CEA Northwest, (collectively, the “CEA Northwest Leased Aircraft”) in January 2004. Certain of the lease arrangement had not been properly authorized and approved in advance by our board of directors and independent directors. Accordingly, our board of directors resolved in August and December 2004 to terminate the lease arrangements, and an agreement was reached with CEA Northwest to terminate such arrangements. In connection with the termination of the lease arrangements, CEA Northwest and our company agreed to retroactively rescind the transactions from the inception of the lease arrangements as permitted under PRC laws. For IFRS purposes, because we actually operated the CEA Northwest Leased Aircraft in our normal business operations during the period from the inception to rescission of the lease, the air traffic revenue and related operating costs have been recognized in our financial statements. The impact of the retroactive rescission of the lease arrangements with CEA Northwest was an aggregate settlement by CEA Northwest and Nanjing Airlines in the amount of RMB133 million, which represents the operating losses incurred on the operation of the CEA Northwest Leased Aircraft during 2004, to us through the reduction of our inter-company payable accounts with CEA Northwest or Nanjing Airlines, as applicable. For more details, see Note 34(c)(ii) to our audited consolidated financial statements.

     (F) Guarantee by CEA Holding

     As at December 31, 2004, unsecured long-term bank loans of our company with aggregate amount of RMB2,123 million are guaranteed by CEA Holding (see Note 34(b) to our audited consolidated financial statements.)

C.  Interests of Experts & Counsel

     Not applicable.

Item 8.  Financial Information.

A.  Financial Statements

     You should read “Item 18-Financial Statements” for information regarding our audited consolidated financial statements and other financial information.

B.  Legal Proceedings

     We are involved in routine litigation and other proceedings in the ordinary course of our business. We do not believe that any of these proceedings are likely to be material to our business operations, financial condition or results of operations. We are not aware of any material proceedings currently pending against our company.

C.  Dividends and Dividend Policy

     For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2002 and 2003, our board of directors recommended no dividend. For the fiscal year

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ended December 31, 2004, our board of director has recommended a cash dividend of RMB0.02 per share and will submit this proposed distribution plan for approval by our shareholders at the annual general meeting for the year of 2004 which is scheduled to be held on June 30, 2005 in Shanghai , China. The declaration and payment of dividends for years following 2004 will depend upon our financial results, our shareholders’ interests, general business conditions and strategies, our capital requirements, contractual restrictions on the payment of dividends by us to our shareholders, and other factors our directors may deem relevant. Holders of our H shares will receive the equivalent amount of cash dividend declared in Renminbi, if any, based on the foreign exchange conversion rate published by the People’s Bank of China, or PBOC, on the date of the distribution of the cash dividend.

D.  Significant Post Financial Statements Events

     For information relating to our proposed acquisition of certain assets and liabilities from CEA Holding relating to the aviation businesses of CEA Northwest and CEA Yunnan, see the section headed “Item 4. Information on the Company — History and Development of the Company” and the section headed “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects — Overview”. For information relating to the establishment of HSSATL, a joint venture company between UTFEL and our company, see the section headed “Item 4. Information on the Company — History and Development of the Company”.

     In addition, since January 1, 2005, we have entered into agreements to purchase 5 Airbus A319 aircraft (with engines), 5 ERJ145 aircraft, 15 Airbus A320 series aircraft and 2 Boeing 747-400 aircraft, respectively, for delivery over the next few years.

Item 9.  The Offer and Listing.

     The principal trading market for our H shares is the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. The ADSs, each representing 100 H shares, have been issued by The Bank of New York as the Depositary and are listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “CEA”. Prior to our initial public offering and subsequent listings on the New York Stock Exchange and the Hong Kong Stock Exchange on February 4 and 5, 1997, respectively, there was no market for our H shares or ADSs.

     The table below sets forth certain market information relating to our H shares and ADSs in respect of the period from February 4, 1997 to May 31, 2005.

                                 
    Price per H Share     Price per ADS  
    High     Low     High     Low  
    (HK$)     (US$)  
2000
    1.62       0.68       20.00       8.50  
2001
    1.41       0.66       17.75       8.75  
2002
    1.48       0.80       18.50       11.00  
First Quarter 2003
    1.15       0.88       14.37       11.60  
Second Quarter 2003
    1.12       0.74       14.39       9.6  
Third Quarter 2003
    1.27       0.95       15.65       12.5  
Fourth Quarter 2003
    1.39       1.14       18.33       15.01  
2003
    1.39       0.88       18.33       9.6  
First Quarter 2004
    1.84       1.28       23.22       17.03  
Second Quarter 2004
    1.64       1.28       21.27       16.74  
Third Quarter 2004
    1.65       1.49       20.90       18.81  
Fourth Quarter 2004
    1.79       1.40       23.30       18.20  
December 2004
    1.78       1.68       23.30       21.87  
January 2005
    1.70       1.56       21.99       20.21  
February 2005
    1.61       1.54       20.50       19.72  
March 2005
    1.55       1.36       19.77       17.23  
April 2005
    1.48       1.30       18.45       16.75  
May 2005
    1.47       1.36       19.15       17.20  

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     As of December 31, 2004 and June 20, 2005, there were 1,566,950,000 H shares issued and outstanding. As of December 31, 2004 and June 20, 2005, there were, respectively, 75 and 72 registered holders of American depositary receipts evidencing 1,226,940 and 1,215,020 ADSs. Since certain of the ADSs are held by nominees, the above number may not be representative of actual number of U.S. beneficial holders of ADSs or the number of ADSs beneficially held by U.S. persons. The depositary for the ADSs is The Bank of New York. A total of 3,300,000,000 domestic shares were also outstanding as of June 20, 2005.

Item 10.  Additional Information.

A.  Share Capital

     Not applicable.

B.  Memorandum and Articles of Association

     The section entitled “Description of Capital Stock” contained in our registration statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-6260) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission is hereby incorporated by reference.

C.  Material Contracts

     For a summary of any material contract entered into by our company or any of its consolidated subsidiaries outside of the ordinary course of business during the last two years, see “Item 4. Information on the Company”, “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects” and “Item 7. Major shareholders and Related Party Transactions”.

     In addition, we entered into the following agreements to purchase aircraft, which are filed with this annual report as exhibits:

    an aircraft purchase agreement dated October 9, 2004 with Airbus SAS in respect of 20 Airbus A330-300 aircraft, and
 
    an amendment to an aircraft purchase agreement dated April 21, 2005 with Airbus SAS in respect of 15 Airbus A320 series aircraft.

D.  Exchange Controls

     Renminbi currently is not a freely convertible currency. SAFE, under the authority of PBOC, controls the conversion of Renminbi into foreign currency. Prior to January 1, 1994, Renminbi could be converted to foreign currency through the Bank of China or other authorized institutions at official rates fixed daily by SAFE. Renminbi could also be converted at swap centers open to Chinese enterprises and foreign invested enterprises, or FIEs, subject to SAFE approval of each foreign currency trade, at exchange rates negotiated by the parties for each transaction. Effective January 1, 1994, a unitary exchange rate system was

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introduced in China, replacing the dual-rate system previously in effect. In connection with the creation of a unitary exchange rate, the Chinese government announced the establishment of an inter-bank foreign exchange market, the China Foreign Exchange Trading System, or CFETS, and the phasing out of the swap centers. Effective December 1, 1998, the swap centers were abolished by the Chinese government.

     In general, under existing foreign exchange regulations, domestic enterprises operating in China must price and sell their goods and services in China in Renminbi. Any foreign exchange received by such enterprises must be sold to authorized foreign exchange banks in China. A significant portion of our revenue and operating expenses are denominated in Renminbi, while a portion of our revenue, capital expenditures and debts are denominated in U.S. dollars and other foreign currencies. Renminbi is currently freely convertible under the current account, which includes dividends, trade and service-related foreign currency transactions, but not under the capital account, which includes foreign direct investment, unless the prior approval of the SAFE, is obtained. As a foreign investment enterprise approved by the MOC, we can purchase foreign currency without the approval of SAFE for settlement of current account transactions, including payment of dividends, by providing commercial documents evidencing these transactions. We can also retain foreign exchange in our current accounts, subject to a maximum amount approved by SAFE, to satisfy foreign currency liabilities or to pay dividends. However, the relevant Chinese government authorities may limit or eliminate our ability to purchase and retain foreign currencies in the future. Foreign currency transactions under the capital account are still subject to limitations and require approvals from SAFE. This may affect our ability to obtain foreign exchange through debt or equity financing, including by means of loans or capital contributions. We cannot assure you that we will be able to obtain sufficient foreign exchange to pay dividends or satisfy our foreign exchange liabilities.

E.  Taxation

     The taxation of income and capital gains of holders of H shares or ADSs is subject to the laws and practices of China and of jurisdictions in which holders of H shares or ADSs are resident or otherwise subject to tax. The following summary of certain relevant taxation provisions is based on current law and practice, is subject to change and does not constitute legal or tax advice. The discussion does not deal with all possible tax consequences relating to an investment in the H shares or ADSs. In particular, the discussion does not address the tax consequences under state, local and other laws, such as non-U.S. federal laws. Accordingly, you should consult your own tax adviser regarding the tax consequences of an investment in the H shares and ADSs. The discussion is based upon laws and relevant interpretations in effect as of the date of this annual report, all of which are subject to change.

Taxation — Hong Kong

     The taxation of income and capital gains of holders of ordinary shares or ADSs is subject to the laws and practices of Hong Kong and of jurisdictions in which holders of ordinary shares or ADSs are resident or otherwise subject to tax. The following summary of certain relevant taxation provisions under Hong Kong law is based on current law and practice, is subject to changes therein and does not constitute legal or tax advice. The discussion does not deal with all possible tax consequences relating to an investment in the ordinary shares or ADSs. Accordingly, each prospective investor (particularly those subject to special tax rules, such as banks, dealers, insurance companies, tax-exempt entities and holders of 10% or more of our voting capital stock) should consult its own tax advisor regarding the tax consequences of an investment in the ordinary shares and ADSs. The discussion is based upon laws and relevant interpretations thereof in effect as of the date of this annual report, all of which are subject to change.

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     Tax on Dividends

     Under the current practices of the Hong Kong Inland Revenue Department, no tax is payable in Hong Kong in respect of dividends received by the recipient.

     Profits Tax

     No tax is imposed in Hong Kong in respect of capital gains from the sale of property (such as the H shares and ADSs). Trading gains from the sale of property by persons carrying on a trade, profession or business in Hong Kong where such gains are derived from or arise in Hong Kong from such trade, profession or business will be chargeable to Hong Kong profits tax which is currently imposed at the rate of 17.5% on corporations and on individuals at a maximum rate of 16.0% with effect from April 1, 2004. Gains from sales of the ordinary shares effected on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange may be considered to be derived from or arise in Hong Kong. Liability for Hong Kong profits tax may thus arise in respect of trading gains from sales of ordinary shares or ADSs realized by persons carrying on a business of trading or dealing in securities in Hong Kong.

     Stamp Duty

     Hong Kong stamp duty, currently charged at the rate of HK$1 per HK$1,000 or part thereof on the higher of the consideration for or the value of the ordinary shares, will be payable by the purchaser on every purchase and by the seller on every sale of ordinary shares (i.e., a total of HK$2 per HK$1,000 or part thereof is currently payable on a typical sale and purchase transaction involving ordinary shares). In addition, a fixed duty of HK$5 is currently payable on any instrument of transfer of ordinary shares. The withdrawal of ordinary shares upon the surrender of ADSs, and the issuance of ADSs upon the deposit of ordinary shares, will also attract stamp duty at the rate described above for sale and purchase transactions unless the withdrawal or deposit does not result in a change in the beneficial ownership of the ordinary shares under Hong Kong law, in which case only a fixed duty of HK$5 is payable on the transfer. The issuance of the ADSs upon the deposit of ordinary shares issued directly to the depositary or for the account of the depositary does not attract stamp duty. No Hong Kong stamp duty is payable upon the transfer of ADSs outside Hong Kong.

     Estate Duty

     The ordinary shares are Hong Kong property under Hong Kong law, and accordingly such ordinary shares may be subject to estate duty on the death of the beneficial owner of the ordinary shares (regardless of the place of the owner’s residence, citizenship or domicile). Hong Kong estate duty is imposed on a progressive scale from 5% to 15%. The rate of and the threshold for estate duty has, in the past, been adjusted on a fairly regular basis. No estate duty is payable when the aggregate value of the dutiable estate does not exceed HK$7.5 million, and the maximum rate of duty of 15% applies when the aggregate value of the dutiable estate exceeds HK$10.5 million.

     The Hong Kong budget handed down on March 16, 2005 proposed abolition of Hong Kong Estate Duty. At the time of writing, the relevant legislation has not been enacted although it is expected that this recommendation will be implemented. It is also expected that the abolition will take effect from the date of enactment and will not retrospectively apply.

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Taxation — China

     The following is a general summary of certain Chinese tax consequences of the acquisition, ownership and disposition of the H Shares and ADSs. This summary does not purport to address all material tax consequences of the ownership of Shares or ADSs, and does not take into account the specific circumstances of any particular investors. This summary is based on the tax laws of China as in effect on the date of this annual report, as well as on the U.S.-China Treaty, all of which are subject to change (or changes in interpretation), possibly with retroactive effect.

     In general, and taking into account the earlier assumptions, for Chinese tax purposes, holders of ADRs evidencing ADSs will be treated as the owners of the H Shares represented by those ADSs, and exchanges of H Shares for ADSs, and ADSs for H Shares, will not be subject to Chinese tax.

     Taxation of Dividends by China

     Individual Investors. The Provisional Regulations of China Concerning Questions of Taxation on Enterprises Experimenting with the Share System, or the Provisional Regulations, provide that dividends from Chinese companies are ordinarily subject to a Chinese withholding tax levied at a flat rate of 20%. However, the Chinese State Tax Bureau issued, on July 21, 1993, a Notice Concerning the Taxation of Gains on Transfer and Dividends from Shares (Equities) Received by Foreign Investment Enterprises, Foreign Enterprises and Foreign Individuals, or the Tax Notice, which provides that dividends from a Chinese company on shares listed on an overseas stock exchange, or Overseas Shares, such as H Shares (including H Shares represented by ADSs), would not be subject to Chinese withholding tax. The relevant tax authority has not collected withholding tax on dividend payments on Overseas Shares.

     Amendments to the individual Income Tax Law of the PRC, or the Amendments, were promulgated on October 31, 1993 and became effective on January 1, 1994. The Amendments provide that any provisions of prior administrative regulations concerning individual income tax which contradict the Amendments are superseded by the Amendments. The Amendments and the amended Individual Income Tax Law can be interpreted to mean that foreign individuals are subject to a withholding tax on dividends received from a Chinese company at a rate of 20% unless such income is specifically exempted from individual income tax by the financial authority of the State Council. However, in a letter dated July 26, 1994 to the State Commission for Restructuring the Economic System, the State Securities Commission and the China Securities Regulatory Commission, the State Tax Bureau confirmed the temporary tax exemption set forth in the Tax Notice for dividends received from a Chinese company listed overseas. In the event this letter is withdrawn, a 20% tax may be withheld on dividends in accordance with the Provisional Regulations, the Amendments, and the Individual Income Tax law of China. Such withholding tax may be reduced pursuant to an applicable double taxation treaty.

     Enterprises. The Provisional Regulations provide that dividends from Chinese companies are ordinarily subject to a Chinese withholding tax levied at a flat rate of 20%. However, according to the Tax Notice, a foreign enterprise with no permanent establishment in China receiving dividends paid on a Chinese company’s Overseas Shares temporarily will not be subject to the 20% withholding tax. If such withholding tax becomes applicable in the future, the rate could be reduced or eliminated pursuant to an applicable double taxation treaty.

     Tax Treaties. Non-Chinese investors resident in countries which have entered into double-taxation treaties with China may be entitled to a reduction of the withholding tax imposed on the payment of dividends to non-Chinese investors of our company.

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China currently has double-taxation treaties with a number of other countries, including Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Japan, Malaysia, the Netherlands, Singapore, the United Kingdom and the United States.

     Under the U.S.-China Treaty, China may tax a dividend paid by our company to a U.S. holder of H shares or ADSs only up to a maximum of 10% of the gross amount of such dividend.

     Taxation of Capital Gains by China

     The Tax Notice provides that gains realized upon the sale of Overseas Shares are not subject to taxes on capital gains. Although the Ministry of Finance has been empowered to collect a tax of 20% on gains derived from the sale of equity shares, a joint notice issued in March 1996 by the Ministry of Finance and the State Tax Bureau indicated that no capital gains tax would be imposed on gains from the sale of shares until the Ministry of Finance and the State Tax Bureau promulgate new rules. Therefore, during 1996 to 2001, holders of H Shares or ADSs were not subject to taxation on gains realized upon the sale or disposition of such shares. After 2001, holders of H Shares or ADSs could become subject to a 20% capital gains tax, unless reduced or eliminated pursuant to an applicable double taxation treaty.

     Under the U.S.-China Treaty, China may only tax gains from the sale or disposition by a U.S. holder of H shares or ADSs representing an interest in the company of 25% or more.

     Chinese Stamp Tax

     Chinese stamp tax imposed on the transfer of shares of Chinese publicly traded companies under the Share System Tax Regulations should not apply to the acquisition or disposition by non-Chinese investors of H Shares or ADSs outside of China by virtue of the Provisional Regulations of The People’s Republic of China Concerning Stamp Tax, which provides that Chinese stamp tax is imposed only on documents executed or received within China or that should be considered as having been executed or received within China.

United States Federal Income Taxation.

     United States Federal Income Taxation

     This section describes the material United States federal income tax consequences of the ownership and disposition of H shares or ADSs. This section applies to you only if you are a U.S. holder, as defined below, and you hold your H shares or ADSs as capital assets for United States federal income tax purposes. This section does not apply to you if you are a member of a special class of holders subject to special rules, including:

    a dealer in securities;
 
    a trader in securities that elects to use a mark-to-market method of accounting for your securities holdings;
 
    a tax-exempt organization;
 
    a life insurance company;
 
    a person liable for alternative minimum tax;

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    a person that actually or constructively owns 10% or more of our voting stock;
 
    a person that holds H shares or ADSs as part of a straddle or a hedging or conversion transaction; or
 
    a person whose functional currency is not the U.S. dollar.

     This section is based on the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, its legislative history, existing and proposed regulations, published rulings and court decisions, all as currently in effect. These laws are subject to change, possibly on a retroactive basis. In addition, this section is based in part upon the representations of the Depositary and the assumption that each obligation in the Deposit Agreement and any related agreement will be performed in accordance with its terms.

     You are a U.S. holder if you are a beneficial owner of H shares or ADSs and you are:

    a citizen or resident of the United States;
 
    a domestic corporation;
 
    an estate whose income is subject to United States federal income tax regardless of its source; or
 
    a trust if a United States court can exercise primary supervision over the trust’s administration and one or more United States persons are authorized to control all substantial decisions of the trust.

     You should consult your own tax advisor regarding the United States federal, state and local and other tax consequences of owning and disposing of H shares or ADSs in your particular circumstances.

     In general, and taking into account the earlier assumptions, for United States federal income tax purposes, if you hold ADRs evidencing ADSs, you will be treated as the owner of the H shares represented by those ADRs. Exchanges of H shares for ADRs, and ADRs for H shares, generally will not be subject to the United States federal income tax.

     Taxation of Dividends

     Under the United States federal income tax laws, and subject to the passive foreign investment company, or PFIC, rules discussed below, if you are a U.S. holder, the gross amount of any dividend we pay out of our current or accumulated earnings and profits (as determined for United States federal income tax purposes) is subject to United States federal taxation. If you are a noncorporate U.S. holder, dividends paid to you after December 31, 2002 and before January 1, 2009 that constitute qualified dividend income will be taxable to you at a maximum tax rate of 15% provided that you hold the H shares or ADSs for more than 60 days during the 121-day period beginning 60 days before the ex-dividend date and meet other holding period requirements.

     The dividend is taxable to you when you, in the case of H shares, or the Depositary, in the case of ADSs, receive the dividend, actually or constructively. The dividend will not be eligible for the dividends-received deduction generally allowed to United States corporations in respect of dividends received from other United States corporations. The amount of the dividend distribution that you must include in your income will be the U.S. dollar value of the Hong Kong dollar payments made, determined at

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the spot Hong Kong dollar/U.S. dollar rate on the date the dividend distribution is includible in your income, regardless of whether the payment is in fact converted into U.S. dollars. Generally, any gain or loss resulting from currency exchange fluctuations during the period from the date you include the dividend payment in income to the date you convert the payment into U.S. dollars will be treated as ordinary income or loss and will not be eligible for the special tax rate applicable to qualified dividend income. This gain or loss generally will be from sources within the United States for foreign tax credit limitation purposes. Distributions in excess of current and accumulated earnings and profits (as determined for United States federal income tax purposes) will be treated as a non-taxable return of capital to the extent of your basis in the H shares or ADSs and thereafter as capital gain. Dividends will be income from sources outside the United States, but generally will be “passive income” or “financial services income”, which is treated separately from other types of income for purposes of computing the foreign tax credit allowable to you.

     Taxation of Capital Gains

     Subject to the PFIC rules discussed below, if you are a U.S. holder and you sell or otherwise dispose of your H shares or ADSs, you will recognize capital gain or loss for United States federal income tax purposes equal to the difference between the U.S. dollar value of the amount that you realize and your tax basis, determined in U.S. dollars, in your H shares or ADSs. Capital gain of a noncorporate U.S. holder that is recognized on or after May 6, 2003 and before January 1, 2009 is generally taxed at a maximum rate of 15% where the property is held more than one year. The deductibility of capital losses is subject to limitations. The gain or loss will generally be from sources within the United States for foreign tax credit limitation purposes.

     PFIC Rules

     We believe that H shares or ADSs should not be treated as stock of a PFIC for United States federal income tax purposes, but this conclusion is a factual determination that is made annually and thus may be subject to change. In general, if you are a U.S. holder, we will be a PFIC with respect to you if for any taxable year in which you held our H shares or ADSs:

    at least 75% of our gross income for the taxable year is passive income; or
 
    at least 50% of the value, determined on the basis of a quarterly average, of our assets is attributable to assets that produce or are held for the production of passive income.

     Passive income generally includes dividends, interest, royalties, rents (other than certain rents and royalties derived in the active conduct of a trade or business), annuities and gains from assets that produce passive income. If a foreign corporation owns at least 25% by value of the stock of another corporation, the foreign corporation is treated for purposes of the PFIC tests as owning its proportionate share of the assets of the other corporation, and as receiving directly its proportionate share of the other corporation’s income.

     If we are treated as a PFIC, and you are a U.S. holder that did not make a mark-to-market election, as described below, you will be subject to special rules with respect to:

    any gain you realize on the sale or other disposition of your H shares or ADSs; and
 
    any excess distribution that we make to you (generally, any distributions to you during a single taxable year that are greater than 125% of the average annual distributions received by you in respect of the H shares or ADSs during the three preceding taxable years or, if shorter, your holding period for the H shares or ADSs).

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     Under these rules:

    the gain or excess distribution will be allocated ratably over your holding period for the H shares or ADSs;
 
    the amount allocated to the taxable year in which you realized the gain or excess distribution will be taxed as ordinary income;
 
    the amount allocated to each prior year, with certain exceptions, will be taxed at the highest tax rate in effect for that year; and
 
    the interest charge generally applicable to underpayments of tax will be imposed in respect of the tax attributable to each such year.

     If you own H shares or ADSs in a PFIC that are treated as marketable stock, you may make a mark-to-market election. If you make this election, you will not be subject to the PFIC rules described above. Instead, in general, you will include as ordinary income each year the excess, if any, of the fair market value of your H shares or ADSs at the end of the taxable year over your adjusted basis in your H shares or ADSs. These amounts of ordinary income will not be eligible for the favorable tax rates applicable to qualified dividend income on long-term capital gains. You will also be allowed to take an ordinary loss in respect of the excess, if any, of the adjusted basis of your H shares or ADSs over their fair market value at the end of the taxable year (but only to the extent of the net amount of previously included income as a result of the mark-to-market election). Your basis in the H shares or ADSs will be adjusted to reflect any such income or loss amounts.

     In addition, notwithstanding any election you make with regard to the H shares or ADSs, dividends that you receive from us will not constitute qualified dividend income to you if we are a PFIC either in the taxable year of the distribution or the preceding taxable year. Dividends that you receive that do not constitute qualified dividend income are not eligible for taxation at the 15% maximum rate applicable to qualified dividend income. Instead, you must include the gross amount of any such dividend paid by us out of our accumulated earnings and profits (as determined for Untied States federal income tax purposes) in your gross income, and it will be subject to tax at rates applicable to ordinary income.

     If you own H shares or ADSs during any year that we are a PFIC, you must file Internal Revenue Service Form 8621.

F.  Dividends and Paying Agents

     Not applicable.

G.  Statement by Experts

     Not applicable.

H.  Documents on Display

     You may read and copy documents referred to in this annual report on Form 20-F that have been filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission at the SEC’s public reference room located at 100 F Street, N.E., Washington, D.C. 20549. Please call the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330 for further information on the public reference rooms and their copy charges. The SEC also

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maintains a web site at http://www.sec.gov that contains reports, proxy statements and other information regarding registrants that file electronically with the SEC.

     The SEC allows us to “incorporate by reference” the information we file with the SEC. This means that we can disclose important information to you by referring you to another document filed separately with the SEC. The information incorporated by reference is considered to be part of this annual report on Form 20-F.

I.  Subsidiary Information

     Not applicable.

Item 11.  Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.

Interest Rate Risk

     The interest rates of our loans are fixed and therefore the risk of fluctuation of interest rates is not significant. However, the fluctuation of the interest rates would affect the estimated fair value of our long-term and other loans as of December 31, 2004. We use interest rate swaps to reduce risks related to changes in market interest rates. As of December 31, 2004, the notional amount of the outstanding interest rate swap agreements was approximately US$437 million. These interest rate swap agreements will expire between 2006 and 2013. The carrying amounts, the estimated fair value and the effect as a result of the change of the average interest rate on our long-term and other loans as of December 31, 2004 are set forth as follows:

         
    RMB’000  
Carrying amounts
    10,705,637  
Estimated fair value
    9,878,592  
Decrease in the estimated fair value resulting from an increase of the average interest rate by 1%
    169,344  
Increase in the estimated fair value resulting from a decrease of the average interest rate by 1%
    194,723  

Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Risk

     Although we derive most of our income from China in Renminbi, our financial lease obligations as well as certain bank loans are denominated in US dollars, Japanese yen or Euro. Pursuant to current foreign exchange regulations in China, we may retain our foreign currency earnings generated from ticket sales made in our overseas offices subject to the approval of SAFE, which are generally sufficient to satisfy our foreign currency liabilities payable within one year. We use forward contracts to reduce risks related to changes in currency exchange rates in respect of ticket sales and expenses denominated in foreign currencies. These currency forward contracts will expire between 2006 and 2010.

     Pursuant to IFRS, our monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are required to be translated into Renminbi at the year end at exchange rates announced by PBOC. Any fluctuation of the exchange rates between Renminbi and foreign currencies may materially adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations. China adopts a floating rate exchange system with control. The exchange rate between Renminbi and US dollars had been comparatively stable in the past. However, the exchange rate between Renminbi and Japanese yen or Euro had experienced a significant level of fluctuation over the past two years. The following table shows the effect on our profit and loss account as a result of the impact on our non-Renminbi denominated monetary assets and liabilities as of December 31, 2004 as a consequence of a fluctuation in value of the following major foreign currencies.

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    Profit and Loss Account  
    Decrease/increase by  
    RMB’000  
US dollar appreciates/(depreciates) by 1%
    45,079  
Japanese yen appreciates/(depreciates) by 1%
    4,811  
Euro appreciates/(depreciates) by 1%
    543  

Item 12.  Description of Securities Other than Equity Securities.

     Not applicable.

PART  II

Item 13.  Defaults, Dividend Arrearages and Delinquencies.

     None.

Item 14.  Material Modifications to the Rights of Security Holders and Use of Proceeds.

Material Modifications to the Rights of Security Holders

     Our board of directors has submitted certain proposed amendments to our articles of association for approval by our shareholders at the annual general meeting for the year of 2004 which is scheduled to be held on June 30, 2005 in Shanghai, China. Set forth below are those proposed amendments that involve modification to the rights of our shareholders.

     Amendments to Article 52. Pursuant to the amendments, a controlling shareholder or an actual controlling person of our company owns fiduciary duties to our public shareholders. A controlling shareholder may not: (1) prejudice the legal rights and interests of our public shareholders by means of connected transaction, distribution of profits, restructuring of assets, external investment, appropriation of funds, loan guarantee etc.; or (2) prejudice the interests and rights of our public shareholders by abusing its controlling position.

     Amendments to Article 60. Pursuant to the amendments, a proposal for consideration at a shareholders’ general meeting shall meet the following requirements: (1) its content does not contravene the laws, administrative regulations and the articles of association and falls within the scope of the duties and responsibilities of the shareholders’ general meeting; (2) there is definite topic(s) and specific matter(s) for resolution; and (3) it is submitted or delivered to the board of directors in writing. The board of directors shall examine each proposal for consideration at a shareholders’ general meeting in the best interests of our company and shareholders.

     New Article 64(A). This new article provides that the board of directors shall determine the record date with respect to a shareholder’s general meeting. The shareholders recorded on our register of shareholders as of the record date are entitled to attend the relevant shareholder’s general meeting. The shareholders who intend to attend a shareholders’ general meeting shall make registration on such date and at such venue as designated in the relevant notice.

     Amendments to Article 72. Pursuant to the amendments, the shareholders’ general meeting shall take a vote on each of the matters for its consideration.

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     Amendments to Article 73. Pursuant to the amendments, our company shall increase the attendance of the public shareholders at shareholders’ general meetings by various means including the use of modern information technologies (for example, online voting facilities), provided that (1) it is permissible under all applicable laws and administrative regulations and/or is acceptable to relevant regulatory authorities as well as complies with and satisfies all relevant rules; and (2) the legality and validity of a shareholders’ general meeting is assured. Moreover, the board of directors, independent directors and qualified shareholders may solicit proxies from shareholders to vote at a shareholders’ general meeting. Adequate information should be furnished to the shareholders whose proxies are solicited. Information so furnished must be previously published information which remains accurate and is not misleading at the time it is quoted.

     New Article 78(A). This new article provides that the implementation of or application for certain matters requires approval by the shareholder’s general meeting and approval by votes representing more than half of the voting rights held by public shareholders who vote at the meeting. Such matters include: (1) our follow-on public offering; (2) restructuring of material assets with the total consideration for the assets acquired equal to or exceeding 120% of the audited book value of such assets; (3) repayment of debts owed by a shareholder to our company with our equity shares; (4) overseas listing of a subsidiary of our company that has material effect on our company; and (5) matters relating to the development of our company that have material effect on the interests and rights of the public shareholders. If a shareholders’ general meeting is convened in connection with any of the above matters, our company shall provide the shareholders with online voting facilities.

     New Article 78(B). This new article provides that under any of the circumstances enumerated in Article 78(A), after giving notices of meeting of shareholders, our company shall publicly announce a notice of meeting of shareholders within 3 days after the relevant record date.

     Amendments to Article 81. Pursuant to the amendments, public announcements shall be made with respect to the resolutions of the shareholders’ general meeting in accordance with relevant regulations.

     New Article 97(A). This new article provides that provision of guarantee by our company for the benefits of any other person requires, among others, approval by the shareholders’ general meeting.

     New Article 106(A). This new article provides that at least one-thirds and three of the members of the board of directors must be independent.

     New Article 106(B). This new article provides that shareholder(s) individually or jointly holding more than 1% of the outstanding shares of our company may nominate candidates for election at a shareholders’ general meeting as independent directors.

     Amendments to Article 108. Pursuant to the amendments, our company shall have a department of investor relations that is specially responsible for strengthening the communications with shareholders, especially public shareholders.

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Use of Proceeds

     Not applicable.

Item 15.  Controls and Procedures.

     Our President and Chief Financial Officer, after evaluating the effectiveness of our company’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(c) and 15d-15(e)) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended) as of the end of the period covered by this annual report, have concluded that, as of such date, our company’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective to ensure that material information relating to our company was made known to them by others within our company except as disclosed in the following paragraphs.

     In the course of their audit, our independent auditors, PricewaterhouseCoopers, have identified a number of areas of internal control that need improvement. Specifically, our auditors noted that we had weaknesses in the following areas: (1) approval and disclosure of certain related party transactions; (2) strict compliance with the shareholder notification rules of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange in connection with the purchase of 20 Airbus A330-300 aircraft; (3) recognition of revenue without adequate supporting documentation; and (4) inadequacy of accounting personnel with sufficient U.S. GAAP and IFRS technical expertise.

     For example, in 2004, we had entered into certain aircraft lease arrangements with CEA Northwest and one of its subsidiaries without prior approval of our board of directors and independent non-executive directors, which approval is required under PRC Company Law and applicable stock exchange listing rules. After the failure to obtain prior approval was discovered, our board of directors resolved in August and December 2004 to terminate the lease arrangements, and an agreement was reached with CEA Northwest to terminate such arrangements. In connection with the termination of the lease arrangements, CEA Northwest and our company agreed to retroactively rescind the transactions from the inception of the lease arrangements, as permitted under PRC laws. For more details regarding the rescission of the lease arrangements, please see the section headed “Item 7. Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions” and Note 34(c)(ii) to our audited consolidated financial statements. In January 2004, we exercised a right to purchase an aircraft upon settlement and termination of an aircraft capital lease arrangement. Thereafter, we recognized a lease rebate that we received from this transaction as other operating income. However, for accounting purposes under PRC Accounting Standards and Regulations (“PRC GAAP”), IFRS and U.S. GAAP, the lease rebate should have been recognized as an adjustment to the carrying value of the purchased aircraft. As a result of the unapproved aircraft lease arrangements and the way in which the lease rebate was initially recognized, we overstated our net profit in our interim unaudited financial statements for the six months ended June 30, 2004 by approximately 16%, 28% and 26% under PRC GAAP, IFRS and U.S. GAAP, respectively. We have since appropriately rectified our accounting treatment with respect to the two incidents described above and reported our corrected actual net profit in our annual audited financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2004.

     These two incidents described above reflect several weaknesses in our internal control that have been identified by our independent auditors. Under the direction of the board of directors, our company’s management, including our chief executive officer and chief financial officer, has taken steps to strengthen control processes and procedures to prevent a recurrence of the problems identified by our independent auditors. These steps include, among others, (1) further tightening the procedures to be

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followed for the approval of related party transactions, (2) working with an independent consulting firm in improving our company’s internal control over financial reporting, (3) adopting measures to enhance our employees’ familiarity with and understanding of the requirements of PRC GAAP, IFRS and U.S. GAAP and (4) establishing new written policies governing the procedures for purchasing and leasing aircraft.

     Our management is aware of the importance of maintaining and improving our controls and procedures. Under the supervision and with the participation of our senior management, including our chief executive officer and chief financial officer, we are in the process of conducting further evaluation of our internal control over financial reporting. To the extent weaknesses are identified in our evaluation, we plan to design and implement enhanced processes and controls to address these weaknesses and further improve our internal control over financial reporting. As we are still in the evaluation process, we may identify areas that may require appropriate actions for correction or improvement. We are committed to further improving our controls and procedures.

     There were no significant changes in our internal control over financial reporting during the period covered by this annual report that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

Item 16A.  Audit Committee Financial Expert.

     Our board of directors has determined that Mr. Xie Rong, the chairman of our audit committee, is the independent financial expert serving on our audit committee.

Item 16B.  Code of Ethics

     We have adopted a code of ethics that applies to our directors, supervisors, President, Chief Financial Officer and other senior managers of our company. We have filed this code of ethics as an exhibit to this annual report by way of incorporation by reference.

Item 16C.  Principal Accountant Fees and Services

     The following table sets forth the aggregate audit fees, audit-related fees, tax fees of our principal accountants and all other fees billed for products and services provided by our principal accountants other than the audit fees, audit-related fees and tax fees for each of the two years ended December 31, 2004:

                                 
    Audit Fees     Audit-Related Fees     Tax Fees     Other Fees  
    (RMB)     (RMB)     (RMB)     (RMB)  
2003
    5,674,200       0       0       0  
2004
    6,093,550       —  (1)     0       0  
___________________________________________________________
 
(1)   PricewaterhouseCoopers, our independent auditors, was the Reporting Accountants on our proposed acquisition of the aviation businesses of CEA Northwest and CEA Yunnan from CEA Holding. The total amount with regards to such professional services billed to us and CEA Holding was RMB 2,728,440 as of December 31, 2004. The total amount of professional services fee to be billed and the allocation of such fees between us and CEA Holding has not yet been finalized.

     Before our principal accountants were engaged by our company or our subsidiaries to render audit or non-audit services, the engagement was approved by our audit committee.

Item 16D.  Exemptions from the Listing Standards for Audit Committees.

     Not applicable.

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Item 16E.  Purchase of Equity Securities by the Issuer and Affiliated Purchasers.

     Not applicable.

PART  III

Item 17.  Financial Statements.

     We have elected to provide the financial statements and related information specified in Item 18 in lieu of Item 17.

Item 18.  Financial Statements.

     Reference is made to pages F-1 to F-65.

Item 19.  Exhibits.

  (a)   See Item 18 for a list of the financial statements filed as part of this annual report.
 
  (b)   Exhibits to this annual report:

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Exhibit Index

     
Exhibits   Description
1.1
  Articles of Association (English translation). (1)
 
   
2.1
  Specimen Certificate for the H Shares.(2)
 
   
2.2
  Form of Deposit Agreement among the Registrant, The Bank of New York, as depositary, and Owners and Beneficial Owners from time to time of American Depositary Receipts.(3)
 
   
4.1
  Office Space Lease Agreement between our company and Eastern Air Group Company (together with English translation).(2)
 
   
4.8
  Employee Housing Lease Agreement between our company and Eastern Air Group Company
(together with English translation).(2)
 
   
4.9
  Aircraft Purchase Agreement dated October 9, 2004 between our company and Airbus SAS.(4)
 
   
4.10
  Amendment No. 9 to the A320 Purchase Agreement dated April 21, 2005 between our company and Airbus SAS.(4)
 
   
4.11
  Assets Transfer Agreement dated May 12, 2005 between our company, CEA Holding, CEA Northwest and CEA Yunnan (English translation).
 
   
8.1
  List of subsidiaries.
 
   
11.1
  Code of Ethics (English translation).(1)
 
   
12.1
  Certification of President pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a).
 
   
12.2
  Certification of CFO pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a).
 
   
13.1
  Certification of President pursuant to Rule 13a-14(b).
 
   
13.2
  Certification of CFO pursuant to Rule 13a-14(b).

___________________________________________________________
 
(1)   Incorporated by reference to our annual report on Form 20-F (File No. 001-14550), filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on June 28, 2004.
 
(2)   Incorporated by reference to our Registration Statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-6260), filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 9, 1997.
 
(3)   Incorporated by reference to our Registration Statement on Form F-6 (File No. 333-6284), filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission with respect to American Depositary Shares representing our H shares.
 
(4)   Portions of the agreement have been omitted pursuant to a confidential treatment request and will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission separately upon request.

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SIGNATURES

     The registrant hereby certifies that it meets all of the requirements for filing on Form 20-F and that it has duly caused and authorized the undersigned to sign this annual report on its behalf.

         
  CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES CORPORATION LIMITED


 
  By:   /s/ Li Fenghua  
    Name:   Li Fenghua   
    Title:   Chairman of the Board of Directors   
 

Date: June 24, 2005

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INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

     
    Page
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES CORPORATION LIMITED
   
  F-1
  F-2
  F-3
  F-5
  F-8
  F-9

 


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REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

The Board of Directors and Shareholders of
China Eastern Airlines Corporation Limited

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of China Eastern Airlines Corporation Limited (the “Company”) and its subsidiaries as of December 31, 2003 and 2004, and the related consolidated statements of income, changes in owner’s equity and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2004. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits.

We conducted our audits in accordance with Standards on Auditing and Standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of China Eastern Airlines Corporation Limited and its subsidiaries at December 31, 2003 and 2004, and the results of their operations, changes in owner’s equity and their cash flows for each of the three years ended December 31, 2004, in conformity with International Financial Reporting Standards.

International Financial Reporting Standards vary in certain significant respects from accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Application of generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America would have affected the results of the operations for the three years ended December 31, 2004 and the determination of consolidated owner’s equity as of December 31, 2003 and 2004, to the extent summarized in Note 39 to the consolidated financial statements.

PricewaterhouseCoopers
Certified Public Accountants

Hong Kong,
April 12, 2005, except for Note 38(b), as to which the date is May 12, 2005.

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CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES CORPORATION LIMITED

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

For The Years Ended December 31, 2002, 2003 and 2004
(Amounts in thousands except for per share data)
                                                   
              Year Ended December 31,  
              2002       2003       2004       2004  
    Note       RMB     RMB     RMB     US$  
                                            (note 2a)  
Traffic revenues
                                                 
                                   
Passenger
              10,037,830         10,261,027         15,357,614         1,855,569    
Cargo and mail
              2,444,667         3,186,984         4,428,360         535,052    
Other operating revenues
              596,492         829,147         1,252,802         151,369    
                                   
Turnover
    3 & 33         13,078,989         14,277,158         21,038,776         2,541,990    
Other operating income, net
    4         226,373         60,890         154,422         18,658    
Operating expenses
                                                 
                                   
Wages, salaries and benefits
    5         (1,035,853 )       (1,449,054 )       (1,865,879 )       (225,443 )  
Take-off and landing charges
              (1,987,835 )       (2,254,456 )       (3,019,742 )       (364,857 )  
Aircraft fuel
              (2,563,701 )       (3,044,956 )       (5,429,658 )       (656,033 )  
Food and beverages
              (605,894 )       (541,669 )       (758,046 )       (91,590 )  
Aircraft depreciation and operating leases
              (2,455,403 )       (2,851,047 )       (3,672,133 )       (443,682 )  
Other depreciation, amortization and operating leases
              (400,291 )       (495,079 )       (495,916 )       (59,919 )  
Aircraft maintenance
              (1,077,764 )       (1,329,304 )       (1,396,283 )       (168,705 )  
Commissions
              (379,674 )       (465,147 )       (772,219 )       (93,303 )  
Office and administration
              (1,044,113 )       (1,057,500 )       (1,337,850 )       (161,644 )  
Revaluation deficit of fixed assets
              (171,753 )                          
Others
              (519,614 )       (628,373 )       (966,295 )       (116,752 )  
                                   
Total operating expenses
              (12,241,895 )       (14,116,585 )       (19,714,021 )       (2,381,928 )  
 
                                         
Operating profit
              1,063,467         221,463         1,479,177         178,720    
Non-operating income
  34(c)(ii)                       133,029         16,073    
Finance costs, net
    6         (768,907 )       (782,783 )       (762,687 )       (92,151 )  
Share of results before tax of associates
    15         (31,666 )       (28,511 )       (4,112 )       (497 )  
 
                                       
Profit/(loss) before taxation
              262,894         (589,831 )       845,407         102,145    
Income tax expenses
    7 (a)       (54,438 )       (247,554 )       (181,224 )       (21,896 )  
 
                                         
Profit/(loss) after taxation
              208,456         (837,385 )       664,183         80,249    
Minority interests
    28         (122,087 )       (112,431 )       (150,108 )       (18,137 )  
 
                                         
 
Profit/(loss) attributable to shareholders
              86,369         (949,816 )       514,075         62,112    
 
                                       
 
Earnings /(loss) per share - basic and diluted
    8       RMB0.02       (RMB0.20     RMB0.11       US$ 0.01    
 
                                       

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

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Table of Contents

CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES CORPORATION LIMITED

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

As of December 31, 2003 and 2004
(Amounts in thousands)
                                 
            December 31,  
            2003     2004     2004  
    Note     RMB     RMB     US$  
                            (note 2a)  
ASSETS
                               
Current assets
                               
Flight equipment spare parts less allowance for obsolescence (2003: RMB400,534; 2004: RMB471,750)
            552,172       523,186       63,213  
Trade receivables less allowance for doubtful accounts (2003: RMB83,663; 2004: RMB94,147)
    10       1,325,677       1,462,672       176,726  
Prepayments, deposits and other receivables
    11       1,371,043       1,108,964       133,989  
Cash and cash equivalents
            1,582,780       2,114,447       255,476  
 
                         
Total current assets
            4,831,672       5,209,269       629,404  
Fixed assets
    12       26,838,903       30,220,319       3,651,340  
Construction in progress
    13       219,788       188,654       22,794  
Lease prepayments
    14       847,319       828,808       100,140  
Investments in associates
    15       626,084       656,190       79,284  
Goodwill and negative goodwill
    16       38,505       36,303       4,386  
Advances on aircraft and flight equipment
    17       2,239,893       2,678,603       323,640  
Other long-term receivables and investments
    18       1,962,362       2,202,606       266,128  
Deferred tax assets
    7 (c)     399,771       395,465       47,782  
Derivative assets
    36       2,814       11,571       1,398  
 
                         
Total assets
            38,007,111       42,427,788       5,126,296  
 
                         

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

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Table of Contents

CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES CORPORATION LIMITED

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (CONTINUED)
As of December 31, 2003 and 2004
(Amounts in thousands)

                                 
            December 31,  
            2003     2004     2004  
    Note     RMB     RMB     US$
(note 2a)
 
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
                               
Current liabilities
                               
Trade payables
    19       109,242       64,718       7,820  
Notes payables
    19       756,490       838,337       101,291  
Sales in advance of carriage
            926,453       719,957       86,988  
Other payables and accrued expenses
    20       4,299,989       5,353,649       646,849  
Current portion of obligations under finance leases
    22       1,692,084       1,189,648       143,738  
Current portion of long-term bank loans
    23       2,250,734       3,193,432       385,843  
Tax payable
            106,113       162,606       19,647  
Short-term bank loans
    24       4,631,918       6,188,919       747,770  
 
                         
Total current liabilities
            14,773,023       17,711,266       2,139,946  
Obligations under finance leases
    22       5,408,802       7,472,638       902,874  
Long-term bank loans
    23       8,972,189       7,542,828       911,355  
Deferred tax liabilities
    7 (c)     740,112       752,917       90,971  
Accrued aircraft overhaul expenses
    21       191,384       175,960       21,260  
Long-term portion of other payable
    27       121,860       100,204       12,107  
Post-retirement benefit obligations
    29 (b)     545,771       562,632       67,980  
Long-term portion of staff housing allowances
    30 (b)     254,669       276,248       33,377  
Derivative liabilities
    36       94,437       119,643       14,456  
 
                         
Total liabilities
            31,102,247       34,714,336       4,194,326  
Commitments and contingent liabilities
    32                    
Minority interests
    28       522,713       831,208       100,430  
 
                               
Owner’s equity
            6,382,151       6,882,244       831,540  
 
                         
Total liabilities and owner’s equity
            38,007,111       42,427,788       5,126,296  
 
                         

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

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Table of Contents

CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES CORPORATION LIMITED

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

For The Years Ended December 31, 2002, 2003 and 2004
(Amounts in thousands)
                                 
    Year Ended December 31,  
                            2004  
      2002     2003     2004   US$  
      RMB     RMB     RMB     (note 2(a))  
Cash flows from operating activities:
                               
Profit/(loss) attributable to shareholders
    208,456       (837,385 )     664,183       80,249  
 
                       
Adjustments to reconcile profit/(loss) attributable to shareholders to net cash from operating activities:
                               
Depreciation of fixed assets
    1,710,811       1,974,462       2,282,195       275,744  
(Gains)/losses on disposals of aircraft and flight equipment
    (115,904 )     28,767       40,564       4,901  
Losses on disposals of other fixed assets
    27,129       4,811       (13,001 )     (1,571 )
Gain on disposal of short-term investments
          (21,920 )     (5,235 )     (632 )
Amortization of lease prepayments
    20,128       20,049       18,414       2,225  
Provision for post-retirement benefits
    23,614       20,844       24,611       2,974  
Amortization of goodwill and negative goodwill
    2,202       2,202       2,202       266  
Interest income (including amortization of bond discount)
    (115,824 )     (147,846 )     (129,020 )     (15,589 )
Interest expenses
    847,213       860,304       870,988       105,236  
Provision for income tax
    71,061       124,530       160,502       19,392  
Revaluation deficit of fixed assets
    171,753                    
Share of results after tax of associates
    32,613       32,738       5,256       635  
Foreign exchange losses/(gains)
    52,207       77,850       (40,168 )     (4,853 )
Movements in:
                               
Flight equipment spare parts
    (91,543 )     4,204       28,986       3,502  
Trade receivables
    (179,392 )     (360,451 )     (136,995 )     (16,552 )
Prepayments and other receivables
    (160,592 )     197,006       (361,345 )     (43,659 )
Trade payables
    16,406       44,719       (44,524 )     (5,379 )
Sales in advance of carriage
    55,088       225,739       (206,496 )     (24,950 )
Other payables and accrued expenses
    346,336       1,759,628       1,069,237       129,190  
Interest accrued on a long-term payable
    10,802       9,610       8,344       1,008  
Deferred taxation
    (17,570 )     118,797       19,578       2,365  
Long-term portion of accrued aircraft overhaul expenses
    50,681       (52,300 )     (15,424 )     (1,864 )
 
                       
 
    2,757,219       4,923,743       3,578,669       432,389  
 
                       
Cash generated from operations
    2,965,675       4,086,358       4,242,852       512,638  
Interest paid
    (847,213 )     (860,304 )     (872,738 )     (105,447 )
Income tax paid
    (33,450 )     (62,977 )     (104,009 )     (12,567 )
 
                       
Net cash inflow from operating activities
    2,085,012       3,163,077       3,266,105       394,624  
 
                       

Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information is set out in note 31.

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

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Table of Contents

CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES CORPORATION LIMITED

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (CONTINUED)
For The Years Ended December 31, 2002, 2003 and 2004
(Amounts in thousands)

                                 
    Year Ended December 31,  
                            2004  
    2002     2003     2004     US$  
    RMB     RMB     RMB     (note 2(a))  
Cash flows from investing activities:
                               
Additions of aircraft and flight equipment
    (1,004,136 )     (5,560,406 )     (1,206,508 )     (145,775 )
Instalment payment for acquisition of an airlines business
    (30,000 )     (30,000 )     (30,000 )     (3,625 )
Proceeds on disposals of aircraft, flight equipment, other fixed assets and equipment
    149,818       91,940       667,824       80,689  
Additions of buildings, other fixed assets and equipment
    (206,595 )     (216,211 )     (319,337 )     (38,583 )
Additions of construction in progress
    (287,179 )     (249,737 )     (178,065 )     (21,515 )
Additions of lease prepayments
    (30,680 )                  
Investments in associates
    (254,656 )     (327,252 )     (12,673 )     (1,531 )
Advances on aircraft and flight equipment
    (2,599,610 )     (1,295,656 )     (2,076,990 )     (250,950 )
Repayments of advances on aircraft and flight equipment
    20,722             80,000       9,666  
Proceeds from maturity of US Treasury zero coupon bonds
                585,736       70,771  
Increase in long-term bank deposits
    (20,992 )     (64,255 )     (51,108 )     (6,175 )
Purchase of short-term investments
    (290,000 )           (270,350 )     (32,665 )
Proceeds from disposals of short-term investments
          311,920       275,585       33,297  
Interest received
    75,466       104,243       71,900       8,687  
Net (increase)/decrease in short-term deposits with original maturities over three months
    10,388       (69,246 )     31,424       3,797  
 
                       
Net cash outflow from investing activities
    (4,467,454 )     (7,304,660 )     (2,432,562 )     (293,912 )
 
                       

Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information is set out in note 31.

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

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Table of Contents

CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES CORPORATION LIMITED

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (CONTINUED)
For The Years Ended December 31, 2002, 2003 and 2004
(Amounts in thousands)

                                 
    Year Ended December 31,  
                      2004  
    2002     2003     2004     US$  
    RMB     RMB     RMB     (note 2a)  
Cash flows from financing activities:
                               
Proceeds of short-term bank loans
    6,349,141       10,920,917       8,988,970       1,086,083  
Repayments of short-term bank loans
    (3,110,274 )     (10,815,508 )     (7,431,931 )     (897,956 )
Proceeds from long-term bank loans
    2,855,152       5,606,107       2,155,310       260,413  
Repayments of long-term bank loans
    (1,661,088 )     (898,022 )     (2,647,930 )     (319,933 )
Principal repayments of finance lease obligations
    (1,958,143 )     (1,400,749 )     (1,617,001 )     (195,372 )
Proceeds from notes payable
    898,342       1,254,030       1,347,786       162,845  
Repayments of notes payable
    (487,092 )     (908,790 )     (1,265,939 )     (152,956 )
Loans from an associate
    15,000                    
Repayments of loans from an associate
    (15,000 )                  
Dividends paid to minority shareholders
    (97,339 )           (60,000 )     (7,249 )
Capital injection from minority shareholders
          5,765       218,387       26,386  
Advances from minority shareholders
    167,730                    
 
                       
 
Net cash inflow/(outflow) from financing activities
    2,956,429       3,763,750       (312,348 )     (37,739 )
 
                       
Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
    573,987       (377,833 )     521,195       62,973  
Cash and cash equivalents at January 1
    1,330,980       1,944,525       1,582,780       191,238  
Exchange adjustment
    39,558       16,088       10,472       1,265  
 
                       
 
Cash and cash equivalents at December 31
    1,944,525       1,582,780       2,114,447       255,476  
 
                       

Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information is set out in note 31.

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

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Table of Contents

CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES CORPORATION LIMITED

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN OWNER’S EQUITY

For The Years Ended December 31, 2002, 2003 and 2004
(Amounts in thousands)
                                 
    Share     Other     Retained        
    capital     reserves     profits        
    (note 25)     (note 26)     (note 26)     Total  
In RMB
                               
Balance at January 1, 2002
    4,866,950       913,499       1,539,859       7,320,308  
 
                               
Net gains/(losses) not recognized in the income statement
                               
Revaluation surplus of fixed assets, net of tax
          418,006             418,006  
Revaluation surplus shared by minority shareholders (note 28)
          (12,981 )           (12,981 )
Revaluation deficit offset against previous revaluation surplus of fixed assets, net of tax
          (301,639 )           (301,639 )
Unrealized losses on cashflow hedges (note 36)
          (33,621 )           (33,621 )
 
                       
 
          69,765             69,765  
Dividends relating to 2001
                (97,339 )     (97,339 )
Profit attributable to shareholders
                86,369       86,369  
Transfer from retained profits to other reserves
          21,391       (21,391 )      
 
                       
Balance at December 31, 2002
    4,866,950       1,004,655       1,507,498       7,379,103  
 
                       
 
                               
Balance at January 1, 2003
    4,866,950       1,004,655       1,507,498       7,379,103  
 
                               
Net gains/(losses) not recognized in the income statement
                               
       
Unrealized losses on cashflow hedges (note 36)
          (62,810 )           (62,810 )
Realized losses on cashflow hedges
          13,156             13,156  
Release of reserves upon disposals of aircraft, net of tax
          (14,269 )     16,787       2,518  
     
 
          (63,923 )     16,787       (47,136 )
Loss attributable to shareholders
                (949,816 )     (949,816 )
Transfer from retained profits to other reserves
          72,510       (72,510 )      
 
                       
Balance at December 31, 2003
    4,866,950       1,013,242       501,959       6,382,151  
 
                       
 
                               
Balance at January 1, 2004
    4,866,950       1,013,242       501,959       6,382,151  
 
                               
Net gains/(losses) not recognized in the income statement
                               
       
Unrealized losses on cashflow hedges (note 36)
          (5,143 )           (5,143 )
Realized gains on cashflow hedges
          (8,839 )           (8,839 )
     
 
          (13,982 )           (13,982 )
Profit attributable to shareholders
                514,075       514,075  
Transfer from retained profits to other reserves
          67,136       (67,136 )      
 
                       
Balance at December 31, 2004
    4,866,950       1,066,396       948,898       6,882,244  
 
                       
In US$(note 2a)
                               
Balance at December 31, 2004
    588,044       128,846       114,650       831,540  
 
                       

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

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Table of Contents

CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES CORPORATION LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

1   CORPORATE INFORMATION
 
    China Eastern Airlines Corporation Limited (the “Company”) was incorporated in the People’s Republic of China (“PRC”) as a joint stock company limited by shares on 14 April 1995. The Company is majority owned by China Eastern Air Holding Company (“CEA Holding”), a state-owned enterprise. The Company and its subsidiaries (the “Group”) are principally engaged in the operation of civil aviation, air cargo, postal delivery and other extended transportation services.
 
2   PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES
 
(a)   Basis of Preparation
 
    The consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”) and the disclosure requirements of the Hong Kong Companies Ordinance. This basis of accounting differs in certain material respects from that used in the preparation of the Group’s statutory accounts in the PRC. The statutory accounts of the Group have been prepared in accordance with the accounting principles and the relevant regulations applicable to PRC joint stock limited companies (“PRC Accounting Regulations”). In preparing these financial statements, appropriate restatements have been made to the Group’s statutory accounts to conform with IFRS.
 
    This basis of accounting under IFRS differs from generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”). Differences between IFRS and U.S. GAAP and their effect on profit attributable to shareholders for the three years ended December 31, 2002, 2003, 2004, and, on the owner’s equity as of December 31, 2003 and 2004, are set out in note 39. The financial statements incorporate additional disclosures customary in filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission of the United States of America (the “SEC”).
 
    The consolidated financial statements have been prepared under historical cost convention as modified by the revaluation of fixed assets, short-term investments and derivative financial instruments.
 
    The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires the use of estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Although these estimates are based on management’s best knowledge of current event and actions, actual results ultimately may differ from those estimates.
 
    The financial information has been prepared in Renminbi (“RMB”), the national currency of the PRC. Solely for the convenience of the reader, the December 31, 2004 financial statements have been translated into United States dollars (“US$”) at the rate of US$1.00 = RMB8.2765, being the noon buying rate in New York City for cable transfers in foreign currencies as certified for customs purposes by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York on December 31, 2004. No representation is made that the RMB amounts could have been, or could be, converted into US$ at that rate or at any other certain rate on December 31, 2004 or at any other certain date.

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    CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES CORPORATION LIMITED
 
    NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
2   PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)
 
(b)   Group accounting
 
    The consolidated financial statements include the financial statements of the Company and its subsidiaries made up to 31 December.

  (i)   Subsidiaries
 
      Subsidiaries, which are those entities in which the Group has an interest of more than one half of the voting rights or otherwise has power to govern the financial and operating policies, are consolidated.
 
      Subsidiaries are consolidated from the date on which control is transferred to the Group and are no longer consolidated from the date that control ceases. The purchase method of accounting is used to account for the acquisition of subsidiaries. The cost of an acquisition is measured as the fair value of the assets given up, shares issued or liabilities undertaken at the date of acquisition plus costs directly attributable to the acquisition. The excess of the cost of acquisition over the fair value of the net assets of the subsidiary acquired is recorded as goodwill. See note 2(m) for the accounting policy on goodwill. Intercompany transactions, balances and unrealized gains on transactions between group companies are eliminated. Where necessary, accounting policies of subsidiaries have been changed to ensure consistency with the policies adopted by the Group.
 
      Minority interests represent the interests of outside members in the operating results and net assets of subsidiaries.
 
      Particulars of the principal subsidiaries, all of which are limited companies established and operating in the PRC, as of December 31, 2004 are as follows:
                                         
    Place and date of                   Attributable     Principal
Company   establishment   Paid-up capital     equity interest     activities
        2003     2004     2003     2004      
        RMB’000     RMB’000                      
China Cargo
  PRC     500,000       500,000       70 %     70 %   Provision of cargo
Airlines Co., Ltd.
  July 22, 1998                                   carriage services
 
                                       
China Eastern Airlines
  PRC     236,579       803,666       55 %     63 %   Provision of
Jiangsu Co., Ltd.
  May 3, 1993                                   airline services
 
                                       
Eastern Airlines
  PRC     70,000       70,000       86 %     86 %   Provision of hotel services
Hotel Co., Ltd. 
  March 18, 1998                                   to crew members
 
                                       
Shanghai Eastern
  PRC     473,000       473,000       95 %     95 %   Provision of flight
Flight Training Co., Ltd.
  December 18, 1995                                   training services
 
                                       
Shanghai Eastern Airlines
  PRC     412,500       412,500       99 %     99 %   Investment holding
Investment Co., Ltd.
  May 8, 2002                                    
 
                                       
Shanghai Eastern
  PRC           200,000             70 %   Provision of cargo
Logistics Co., Ltd.
  August 23, 2004                                   logistics services

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Table of Contents

    CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES CORPORATION LIMITED
 
    NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
2   PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)
 
(b)   Group accounting (Continued)

  (ii)   Associates
 
      Investments in associates are accounted for by the equity method of accounting. Under this method the Company’s share of the post-acquisition profits or losses of associates is recognized in the income statement and its share of post-acquisition movements in reserves is recognized in reserves. The cumulative post-acquisition movements are adjusted against the cost of the investment. Associates are entities over which the Group generally has between 20% and 50% of the voting rights, or over which the Group has significant influence, but which it does not control.
 
      Unrealized gains on transactions between the Group and its associates are eliminated to the extent of the Group’s interest in the associates; unrealized losses are also eliminated unless the transaction provides evidence of an impairment of the asset transferred. The Group’s investment in associates includes goodwill (net of accumulated amortization) on acquisition. When the Group’s share of losses in an associate equals or exceeds its interest in the associate, the Group does not recognise further losses, unless the Group has incurred obligations or made payments on behalf of the associates.

(c)   Foreign currency translation
 
    The Group maintains its books and records in RMB which is the measurement currency of the Group. Transactions in foreign currencies are translated at the applicable rates of exchange prevailing at the dates of the transactions, quoted by the People’s Bank of China. Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated into RMB at the rates prevailing at the balance sheet date as quoted by the People’s Bank of China. Exchange differences are included in the income statement, except when deferred in equity as qualifying cashflow hedges.
 
(d)   Revenue recognition and sales in advance of carriage
 
    Passenger, cargo and mail revenues are recognized as traffic revenues when the transportation services are provided. The value of sold but unused tickets is included in the current liabilities as sales in advance of carriage.
 
    Revenues from other operating businesses, including income derived from the provision of ground services and commission income are recognized when services are rendered. Commission income includes amounts earned from other carriers in respect of sales made by the Group. Rental income from leasing office premises and cargo warehouses is recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term.
 
    Revenues are presented net of business tax.
 
    Interest income is recognized on a time-proportionate basis.
 
    Rental income from subleases is recognized on a straight-line basis over the terms of the respective leases.

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Table of Contents

    CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES CORPORATION LIMITED
 
    NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
2   PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)
 
(e)   Segment reporting
 
    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.
 
    In respect of the geographical segment, the analysis of turnover and operating profit by geographical segment is based on the following criteria:-

  (i)   Traffic revenue from domestic services within the PRC (excluding Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (“Hong Kong”)) is attributed to the domestic operation. Traffic revenue from inbound and outbound services between the PRC and Hong Kong or overseas markets is attributed to the geographical area in which the relevant overseas origin or destination lies.
 
  (ii)   Other operating revenues from ticket handling services, airport ground services and other miscellaneous services are attributed on the basis of where the services are performed.

(f)   Retirement benefits
 
    The Group participates in defined contribution retirement schemes regarding pension and medical benefit for employees organized by the municipal governments of respective provinces. The contributions to the schemes are charged to the income statement as and when incurred.
 
    In addition, the Group provides retirees with post-retirement benefits including retirement subsidies, transportation subsidies, social function activity subsidies as well as other welfare. The liability recognized in the balance sheet in respect of defined benefit pension plans is the present value of the defined benefit obligation at the balance sheet date less the fair value of plan assets, together with adjustments for unrecognized actuarial gains or losses and past service costs. The defined benefit obligation is calculated annually by independent actuaries using the projected unit credit method. The present value of the defined benefit obligation is determined by discounting the estimated future cash outflows using interest rates of high-quality corporate bonds that are denominated in the currency in which the benefits will be paid, and that have terms to maturity approximating to the terms of the related pension liability.
 
    Actuarial gains and losses arising from experience adjustments and changes in actuarial assumptions in excess of the greater of 10% of the value of plan assets or 10% of the defined benefit obligation are charged or credited to income over the employees’ expected average remaining working lives.
 
    Past-service costs are recognized immediately in income, unless the changes to the pension plan are conditional on the employees remaining in service for a specified period of time (the vesting period). In this case, the past-service costs are amortized on a straight-line basis over the vesting period.

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Table of Contents

    CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES CORPORATION LIMITED
 
    NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
2   PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)
 
(g)   Maintenance and overhaul costs
 
    In respect of aircraft and engines under operating leases, the Group has the responsibility to fulfill certain return conditions under relevant leases. In order to fulfill these return conditions, major overhauls are required to be conducted on a regular basis. Accordingly, the present value of estimated costs of major overhauls for aircraft and engines under operating leases are accrued and charged to the income statement over the estimated period between overhauls using the ratios of actual flying hours/cycles and estimated flying hours/cycles between overhauls. The costs of major overhaul comprise mainly labour and materials. Differences between the estimated cost and the actual cost of the overhaul are included in the income statement in the period of overhaul.
 
    All other routine repairs and maintenance costs incurred in restoring such fixed assets to their normal working condition are charged to the income statement as and when incurred.
 
    Improvements are capitalized and depreciated over their expected useful lives to the Group.
 
(h)   Government grant
 
    Grants from the government are recognized at their fair value where there is a reasonable assurance that the grant will be received and the Group will comply with all attached conditions.
 
    Government grants relating to costs are deferred and recognized in the income statement over the period necessary to match them with the costs they are intended to compensate.
 
    Government grants relating to the fixed assets are included in non-current liabilities as other liabilities and are credited to the income statement on a straight-line basis over the expected lives of the related assets.
 
(i)   Taxation
 
    The Group provides for taxation on the basis of the results for the year as adjusted for items which are not assessable or deductible for income tax purposes. Taxation of the Group is determined in accordance with the relevant tax rules and regulations applicable in the jurisdictions where the Group operates.
 
    Deferred income tax is provided in full, using the liability method, on temporary differences arising between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and their carrying amounts in the financial statements. Deferred tax is measured using tax rates enacted, or substantively enacted at the balance sheet date.
 
    Deferred tax assets are recognized to the extent that it is probable that future taxable profit will be available against which the temporary differences can be utilized.

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Table of Contents

    CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES CORPORATION LIMITED
 
    NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
2   PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)
 
(j)   Fixed assets

  (i)   Fixed assets are recognized initially at cost which comprises purchase price, costs transferred from construction in progress and any directly attributable costs of bringing the assets to the condition for their intended use.
 
      Subsequent to the initial recognition, fixed assets are stated at revalued amount less accumulated depreciation and accumulated impairment losses. Independent valuations are performed at least every five years or sooner if considered necessary by the directors. In the intervening years, the directors review the carrying values of the fixed assets and adjustment is made where these are materially different from fair value. Increases in the carrying amount arising on revaluation are credited to the revaluation reserve. Decreases in valuation of fixed assets are first offset against increases from earlier valuations of the same asset and are thereafter charged to the income statement. All other decreases in valuation are charged to the income statement. Any subsequent increases are credited to the income statement up to the amount previously charged.
 
  (ii)   Depreciation of fixed assets is calculated on the straight-line method to write off the cost or revalued amount of each asset to their residual value over their estimated useful lives. The estimated useful lives used for the calculation of annual depreciation charges are as follows:-
             
 
  Aircraft   -   20 years
 
  Flight equipment        
 
  - Engines   -   20 years
 
  - Other flight equipment   -   20 years
 
  Buildings   -   15 to 35 years
 
  Other fixed assets and equipment   -   5 to 20 years

  (iii)   Gains and losses on disposals are determined by comparing proceeds with carrying amount and are included in operating profit. When revalued assets are sold, the amounts included in revaluation reserves are transferred to retained earnings.

(k)   Construction in progress
 
    Construction in progress represents office buildings, various infrastructure projects under construction and plant and equipment pending installation. This includes the costs of construction and acquisition and interest capitalized. No depreciation is provided on construction in progress until the asset is completed and put into use.
 
(l)   Lease prepayments
 
    Lease prepayments represent acquisition costs of land use rights less accumulated amortization. Amortization is provided over the lease period of land use rights on a straight-line basis.

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Table of Contents

    CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES CORPORATION LIMITED
 
    NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
2   PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)
 
(m)   Goodwill and negative goodwill

  (i)   Goodwill
 
      Goodwill represents the excess of the cost of an acquisition over the fair value of the Group’s share of the net assets of the acquired subsidiary or associate at the date of acquisition.
 
      Goodwill arising from a business combination is presented as cost less accumulated amortization and accumulated impairment losses. Amortization is made using the straight-line method over its estimated useful life. Management determines the estimated useful life of goodwill based on its evaluation of the respective companies at the time of the acquisition, considering factors such as existing market share, potential growth and other factors inherent in the acquired companies. At each balance sheet date, the Group assesses whether there is any indication of impairment. If such indications exist, an analysis is performed to assess whether the carrying amount of goodwill is fully recoverable. A write down is made if the carrying amount exceeds the recoverable amount.
 
  (ii)   Negative goodwill
 
      Negative goodwill represents the excess of the fair value of the Group’s share of the net assets acquired subsidiary or associate over the cost of acquisition. Negative goodwill is presented in the same balance sheet classifications as goodwill.
 
      To the extent that negative goodwill relates to expected future losses and expenses that are identified in the Group’s plan for the acquisition and can be measured reliably, but which do not represent identifiable liabilities, that portion of negative goodwill is recognized as income when the future losses and expenses are recognized. Any remaining negative goodwill, not exceeding the fair values of the non-monetary assets acquired, is recognized in the income statement over the remaining weighted average useful life of those assets. Negative goodwill in excess of the fair values of those assets is recognized in the income statement immediately.
 
      At each balance sheet date, the Group assesses whether there is any indication of impairment. If such indications exist, an analysis is performed to assess whether the carrying amount of goodwill is fully recoverable. A write down is made if the carrying amounts exceeds the recoverable amount.
 
      The gain or loss on disposals of an entity includes the carrying amount of goodwill relating to the entity sold.

(n)   Advances on aircraft and flight equipment
 
    Advance contract payments to aircraft manufacturers to secure deliveries of aircraft and flight equipment in future years are capitalized along with attributable interests, and transferred to fixed assets upon delivery of the aircraft.

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Table of Contents

    CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES CORPORATION LIMITED
 
    NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
2   PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)
 
(o)   Borrowing costs
 
    Interest attributable to funds used to finance the acquisition of new aircraft and construction of major ground facilities is capitalized as an additional cost of the related asset. Interest is capitalized at the Group’s weighted average interest rate on borrowings or, where applicable, the interest rate related to specific borrowings during the period of time that is required to complete and prepare the asset for its intended use.
 
    All other borrowing costs are charged to the income statement in the period in which they are incurred.
 
(p)   Long-term bank deposits
 
    Long-term bank deposits placed to secure future lease obligations are classified as held-to-maturity financial assets and measured at amortized cost.
 
(q)   Impairment
 
    Fixed assets and other non-current assets, including goodwill are reviewed for impairment losses whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. An impairment loss is recognized for the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset exceeds its recoverable amount which is the higher of an asset’s net selling price and value in use. For the purposes of assessing impairment, assets are grouped at the lowest level for which there are separately identifiable cashflows.
 
(r)   Flight equipment spare parts
 
    Flight equipment spare parts are carried at weighted average cost less allowance for obsolescence.
 
(s)   Trade receivables
 
    Trade receivables are carried at original invoice amount less provision made for impairment of these receivables. A provision for impairment of trade receivables is established if there is objective evidence that the Group will not be able to collect all amounts due according to the original terms of receivables. The amount of the provision is the difference between the carrying amount and the present value of expected cashflows, discounted at the effective interest rate.
 
(t)   Cash and cash equivalents
 
    Cash and short-term highly liquid investments, which are readily convertible into cash and have original maturities of three months or less at the date of acquisition, are classified as cash and cash equivalents.

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Table of Contents

    CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES CORPORATION LIMITED
 
    NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
2   PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)
 
(u)   Provisions
 
    Provisions are recognized when the Group has a present legal or constructive obligation as a result of past events, it is probable that an outflow of resources will be required to settle the obligation, and a reliable estimate of the amount can be made. Where the Group expects a provision to be reimbursed, for example under an insurance contract, the reimbursement is recognized as a separate asset but only when the reimbursement is virtually certain.
 
(v)   Leases

  (i)   A Group company is the lessee
 
      Leases of fixed assets where the Group has substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership are classified as finance leases. Finance leases are capitalized at the inception of the lease at the lower of the fair value of the leased asset or the present value of the minimum lease payments. Each lease payment is allocated between the liability and finance charges so as to achieve a constant rate on the finance balance outstanding. The interest element of the finance cost is charged to the income statement over the lease period so as to produce a constant periodic rate of interest on the remaining balance of the liability for each period.
 
      Leased assets are depreciated using the straight-line method over their expected useful lives to residual values.
 
      Leases of assets under which a significant portion of the lease risks and rewards of ownership are retained by the lessor are classified as operating leases. Lease payments made under operating leases are charged to the income statement on a straight-line basis over the period of the lease.
 
  (ii)   A Group company is the lessor
 
      When assets are leased out under a finance lease, the present value of the lease payments is recognized as a receivable. The difference between the gross receivable and the present value of the receivable is recognized as unearned finance income. Lease income is recognized over the term of the lease using the net investment method, which reflects a constant periodic rate of return.
 
      Assets leased out under operating leases are included in fixed assets in the balance sheet. They are depreciated over their expected useful lives on a basis consistent with similar fixed assets. Rental income is recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term.

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Table of Contents

    CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES CORPORATION LIMITED
 
    NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
2   PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED)
 
(w)   Derivative financial instruments
 
    Derivative financial instruments are initially recognized in the balance sheet at cost and subsequently are remeasured at their fair value. The method of recognizing the resulting gain or loss is dependent on the nature of the item being hedged. The Group designates certain derivatives as either (1) a hedge of the fair value of a recognized asset or liability (i.e. fair value hedge), or (2) a hedge of a forecasted transaction or of a firm commitment (i.e. cashflow hedge).
 
    Derivative financial instrument that does not qualify for hedge accounting is accounted for as trading instrument and any unrealized gain or loss, being changes in fair value of the derivative, is recognized in the income statement immediately.
 
    Changes in the fair value of derivatives that are designated and qualify as fair value hedges and that are highly effective, are recorded in the income statement, along with any changes in the fair value of the hedged assets or liabilities that are attributable to the hedged risk.
 
    Derivative financial instrument that qualifies for hedge accounting and is designated as a specific hedge of the variability in cashflows of a highly probable forecast transaction, is accounted for as follows:-
 
(i)   the effective part of any gain or loss on the derivative financial instrument is recognized directly in equity. Where the forecasted transaction or firm commitment results in the recognition of an asset or a liability, the gains and losses previously deferred in equity are included in the initial measurement of the cost of the asset or liability. Otherwise, the cumulative gain or loss on the derivative financial instrument is removed from equity and recognized in the income statement in the same period during which the hedged forecast transaction affects net profit or loss.
 
(ii)   the ineffective part of any gain or loss is recognized in the income statement immediately.
 
    When a hedging instrument expires or is sold, or when a hedge no longer meets the criteria for hedge accounting, any cumulative gain or loss existing in equity at that time remains in equity and is recognized in the income statement when the committed or forecasted transaction ultimately occurs. When a committed or forecasted transaction is no longer expected to occur, the cumulative gain or loss that was recorded in equity is immediately transferred to the income statement.
 
(x)   Dividend
 
    Dividend distribution to the Company’s shareholders is recognized as a liability in the Group’s financial statements in the period in which the dividends are approved by the Company’s shareholders.
 
(y)   Comparatives
 
    Where necessary, comparative figures have been reclassified to conform with changes in presentation in the current year.

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Table of Contents

    CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES CORPORATION LIMITED
 
    NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
3   REVENUES AND TURNOVER
 
    The Group is principally engaged in the provision of domestic, Hong Kong and international passenger, cargo and mail airline services. Turnover comprises revenues from airline and related services net of business tax and civil aviation infrastructure levies.
                           
      Year Ended December 31,  
      2002     2003     2004  
      RMB’000     RMB’000     RMB’000  
Gross turnover
    13,814,709       14,575,443       21,566,944  
Less:  Business tax (note (a))     (304,558 )     (168,639 )     (528,168 )
  Civil aviation infrastructure levies (note (b))     (431,162 )     (129,646 )      
 
 
                 
 
 
    13,078,989       14,277,158       21,038,776  
 
 
                 

(a)   Pursuant to various PRC business tax rules and regulations, the Group is required to pay PRC business tax. Except for traffic revenues derived from inbound international and regional flights which are not subject to PRC business tax, the Group’s traffic revenues, commission income and ground service income are subject to PRC business tax levied at rates ranging from 3% to 5%.
 
(b)   Prior to 1 May 2003, the civil aviation infrastructure levies were paid to Civil Aviation Administration of China (“CAAC”), at rates of 5% and 2% respectively for domestic and international or regional traffic revenues.
 
    From 1 May 2003 to 31 March 2004, civil aviation infrastructure levies for all traffic revenues of the Group are waived by CAAC, in compensating for the airlines’ losses on revenue due to the outbreak of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (“SARS”).
 
    Effective from 1 April 2004, in accordance with the related new policy promulgated by the PRC Government, civil aviation infrastructure levies are payable based on the route, aircraft model and tonne-kilometers, and the levies of RMB251,185,000 incurred for the year ended December 31, 2004 are recorded in the operating expenses.

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Table of Contents

    CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES CORPORATION LIMITED
 
    NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
4   OTHER OPERATING INCOME, NET
                         
    Year Ended December 31,  
    2002     2003     2004  
    RMB’000     RMB’000     RMB’000  
Rental income from operating subleases of aircraft (note 34(c)(i))
    110,469       31,209       121,480  
Government subsidy (note (a))
          58,448       73,506  
Gain/(loss) on disposals of aircraft and engines (note (b))
    115,904       (28,767 )     (40,564 )
 
                 
 
    226,373       60,890       154,422  
 
                 

(a)   In 2004, government subsidy was granted by the local government to the Company in consideration of the relocation of the Company’s international flights and related facilities from Hongqiao Airport to Pudong International Airport. In 2003, the government subsidy was granted for compensation of SARS impact on airlines business.
 
(b)   The Group disposed of two A310 aircraft in the year ended December 31, 2002, three B737-200 aircraft in the year ended December 31, 2003 and seventeen engines in the year ended December 31, 2004. All of the above disposals are made to unrelated third parties.
 
5   WAGES, SALARIES AND BENEFITS
                         
    Year Ended December 31,  
    2002     2003     2004  
    RMB’000     RMB’000     RMB’000  
Wages, salaries and allowances
    897,843       1,027,092       1,590,722  
Contribution under defined contribution retirement schemes (note 29(a))
    98,876       121,200       194,200  
Post-retirement benefits (note 29(b)(iii))
    39,134       40,299       51,704  
Staff housing allowances (note 30(b))
          260,463       29,253  
 
                 
 
    1,035,853       1,449,054       1,865,879  
 
                 
Average number of employees for the year ended
    15,719       16,435       19,666  
 
                 

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Table of Contents

    CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES CORPORATION LIMITED
 
    NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
6   FINANCE COSTS, NET
                         
    Year Ended December 31,  
    2002     2003     2004  
    RMB’000     RMB’000     RMB’000  
Interest charged on obligations under finance leases
    509,889       490,456       339,276  
Interest on bank loans
                       
- wholly repayable within five years
    174,395       265,955       431,157  
- not wholly repayable within five years
    222,702       180,291       144,693  
 
                 
 
    397,097       446,246       576,210  
Net foreign exchange losses
    37,518       62,179       32,207  
Interest accrued on a long-term payable (note 27)
    10,802       9,610       8,344  
Interest on loans from an associate
    1,373       6,396       1,629  
Less: amounts capitalized into advances on aircraft and flight equipment (note 17)
    (71,948 )     (97,414 )     (57,120 )
 
                 
 
    884,731       917,473       900,546  
Interest income
    (115,824 )     (147,846 )     (129,020 )
 
                 
 
    768,907       769,627       771,526  
Fair value (gains)/losses on financial instrument
                       
- interest rate swap
          5,010       2,659  
- forward foreign exchange contract
          8,146       (11,498 )
 
                 
 
    768,907       782,783       762,687  
 
                 

    The capitalization rates ranged between 4.00% and 6.50% per annum for the year ended December 31, 2002, 3 months LIBOR+0.25% and 5.76% per annum for the year ended December 31, 2003 and 3 months LIBOR+0.25% and 5.76% per annum for the year ended December 31, 2004.
 
7   TAXATION
 
(a)   Taxation are (charged)/credited to the consolidated income statements as follows:-
                         
    Year Ended December 31,  
    2002     2003     2004  
    RMB’000     RMB’000     RMB’000  
Provision for PRC income tax - current year
    (71,061 )     (124,530 )     (160,502 )
Deferred taxation (note 7(c))
    17,570       (118,797 )     (19,578 )
Share of tax attributable to associates (note 15)
    (947 )     (4,227 )     (1,144 )
 
                 
 
    (54,438 )     (247,554 )     (181,224 )
 
                 

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Table of Contents

    CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES CORPORATION LIMITED
 
    NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
7   TAXATION (CONTINUED)
 
(i)   Pursuant to the Circular Hu Shui Er Cai (2001) No. 104 dated October 22, 2001 issued by local tax bureau, with retrospective effect from July 1, 2001, the Company is entitled to a reduced income tax rate of 15%.
 
(ii)   The Company has two major subsidiaries, namely China Cargo Airlines Co., Ltd. (“China Cargo”) and China Eastern Airlines Jiangsu Co., Ltd. (“CEA Jiangsu”). Pursuant to the Circular (2000) No. 52 jointly issued by the Shanghai Municipal Financial Bureau and Shanghai Municipal State Tax Bureau, China Cargo is subject to a reduced income tax rate of 15%. CEA Jiangsu is subject to the standard PRC income tax rate of 33%.
 
(iii)   The difference between the actual taxation charge in the consolidated income statement and the amounts which would result from applying the enacted tax rate to profit/(loss) before taxation can be reconciled as follows:-
                         
    Year Ended December 31,  
    2002     2003     2004  
    RMB’000     RMB’000     RMB’000  
Profit/(loss) before taxation
    262,894       (589,831 )     845,407  
 
                 
Tax calculated at enacted tax rate of 15%
    (39,434 )     88,475       (126,811 )
Effect attributable to subsidiaries and associates charged at tax rate of 33%
    (11,101 )     (4,117 )     (24,902 )
Adjustments:-
                       
Expenses not deductible for tax purposes
    (15,799 )     (62,421 )     (35,428 )
Unrecognized tax losses of the Company
          (258,515 )      
Utilization of previously unrecognized tax losses of Company
                6,395  
Utilization of previously unrecognized tax losses of subsidiaries
    36,953              
Unrecognized tax losses of associates
    (11,347 )     (14,821 )     (20,993 )
Utilization of previously unrecognized tax losses of associates
                19,998  
Expired tax losses not deductible for tax purposes
    (15,185 )            
Others
    1,475       3,845       517  
 
                 
Tax charge
    (54,438 )     (247,554 )     (181,224 )
 
                 

(b)   The Group operates international flights to certain overseas destinations. There was no material overseas taxation for the year as there exists double tax relief between PRC and the corresponding jurisdictions (including Hong Kong).

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Table of Contents

    CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES CORPORATION LIMITED
 
    NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
7   TAXATION (CONTINUED)
 
(c)   Movements in net deferred taxation liabilities are as follows:-
                 
    December 31,  
    2003     2004  
    RMB’000     RMB’000  
At January 1
    232,825       340,341  
Charged to income statement (note 7(a))
    118,797       19,578  
Credited to equity
               
- revaluation reserves
    (2,518 )      
- unrecognized losses on cash flow hedges
    (8,763 )     (2,467 )
 
           
At December 31
    340,341       357,452  
 
           

    As at December 31, 2003 and 2004, the deferred tax assets and liabilities (prior to offsetting of balances within the same tax jurisdiction) were made up of taxation effects of the followings:-
                                                 
    December 31,  
            2003                     2004        
    Current     Non-current     Total     Current     Non-current     Total  
    RMB’000     RMB’000     RMB’000     RMB’000     RMB’000     RMB’000  
Deferred tax assets:
                                               
Tax losses carried forward
          312,916       312,916             349,562       349,562  
Provision for obsolete flight equipment and spare parts
          41,960       41,960             54,014       54,014  
Repair cost on flight equipment
          160,541       160,541             119,039       119,039  
Provision for post-retirement benefits
    2,999       86,734       89,733       4,192       91,060       95,252  
Other accrued expenses
    108,518       13,744       122,262       104,493       16,211       120,704  
 
                                   
 
    111,517       615,895       727,412       108,685       629,886       738,571  
Less: unrecognized assets
          (258,515 )     (258,515 )           (252,120 )     (252,120 )
 
                                   
 
    111,517       357,380       468,897       108,685       377,766       486,451  
 
                                   
Deferred tax liabilities:
                                               
Provision for overhaul
          (103,853 )     (103,853 )           (106,128 )     (106,128 )
Depreciation and amortization
          (705,385 )     (705,385 )           (737,775 )     (737,775 )
 
                                   
 
          (809,238 )     (809,238 )           (843,903 )     (843,903 )
 
                                   
Deferred tax assets/(liabilities), net
    111,517       (451,858 )     (340,341 )     108,685       (466,137 )     (357,452 )
 
                                   

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Table of Contents

    CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES CORPORATION LIMITED
 
    NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
7   TAXATION (CONTINUED)
 
    Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are offset when there is a legally enforceable right to set off current tax assets against current liabilities and when the deferred income taxes relate to the same authority. The following amounts, determined after appropriate offsetting, are shown in the consolidated balance sheets:
                 
    2003     2004  
    RMB’000     RMB’000  
Deferred tax assets
    399,771       395,465  
Deferred tax liabilities
    (740,112 )     (752,917 )
 
           
 
    (340,341 )     (357,452 )
 
           

    In accordance with PRC tax law, tax losses may be carried forward against future taxable income for a period of five years. As at December 31, 2003 and 2004, the Company had tax losses carried forward approximately RMB2,086 million and RMB2,330 million respectively which will expire between 2006 and 2009, available to set off against the Company’s future taxable income. For the year ended December 31, 2004, the Company did not recognize RMB252,120,000 of deferred tax asset arising from the tax losses available as management believe it was more likely than not that such tax losses would not be realized before they expire.
 
8   EARNINGS PER SHARE
 
    The calculation of earnings/(loss) per share is based on the profit attributable to shareholders of RMB86,369,000, loss attributable to shareholders of RMB949,816,000 and profit attributable to shareholders of RMB514,075,000 for the years ended December 31, 2002, 2003 and 2004, respectively, and 4,866,950,000 shares in issue during the years ended December 31, 2002, 2003 and 2004. The Company has not issued any potential dilutive instruments that are ordinary share equivalent.
 
9   DIVIDENDS
 
    The Board of Directors of the Company does not recommend the payment of a dividend for the year ended December 31, 2003.
 
    On April 12, 2005, the Board of Directors proposed a final dividend of RMB0.02 per share totalling RMB97,339,000 for the year ended December 31, 2004. These financial statements do not reflect this dividend payable, which will be accounted for in the shareholders’ equity as an appropriation of retained earnings in the year ending December 31, 2005.

F-24


Table of Contents

    CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES CORPORATION LIMITED
 
    NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
10   TRADE RECEIVABLES LESS ALLOWANCE FOR DOUBTFUL ACCOUNTS
 
    The credit terms given to trade customers are determined on individual basis, with the credit period ranging from half a month to three months.
 
    As of December 31, 2003 and 2004, the aging analysis of the trade receivables were as follows:-
                 
    2003     2004  
    RMB’000     RMB’000  
Less than 31 days
    853,303       1,077,804  
31 to 60 days
    348,159       216,236  
61 to 90 days
    28,094       68,845  
Over 90 days
    96,121       99,787  
 
           
 
    1,325,677       1,462,672  
 
           

11   PREPAYMENTS, DEPOSITS AND OTHER RECEIVABLES
                 
    December 31,  
    2003     2004  
    RMB’000     RMB’000  
Amounts due from related companies (note 34(a)(i))
    45,389       122,253  
Receivables from provision of ground services
    111,129       243,890  
Receivables from provision of cargo handling services
    70,022       118,446  
Prepaid aircraft operating lease rentals
    95,959       115,456  
Short-term deposits with original maturity over three months
    108,870       77,446  
Discounts on aircraft acquisitions receivable
    29,814       31,136  
US treasury zero coupon bonds
    585,736        
Others
    324,124       400,337  
 
           
 
    1,371,043       1,108,964  
 
           

F-25


Table of Contents

    CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES CORPORATION LIMITED
 
    NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
12   FIXED ASSETS
                                         
    Aircraft and                      
    flight equipment                      
            Held under             Other fixed        
            finance             assets and        
    Owned     leases     Buildings     equipment     Total  
    RMB’000     RMB’000     RMB’000     RMB’000     RMB’000  
Valuation
                                       
At January 1, 2004
    22,163,218       10,956,426       2,224,520       2,038,181       37,382,345  
Reclassification upon purchase of aircraft under a finance lease
    356,328       (356,328 )                  
Lease rebate upon purchase of aircraft under a finance lease (note a)
    (98,921 )                       (98,921 )
Transfer from construction in progress (note 13)
                84,847       124,352       209,199  
Transfers from advances (note 17)
    535,548       1,079,852                   1,615,400  
Additions
    1,574,829       2,808,904       22,159       227,428       4,633,320  
Disposals
    (912,312 )           (77,511 )     (68,604 )     (1,058,427 )
 
                             
At December 31, 2004
    23,618,690       14,488,854       2,254,015       2,321,357       42,682,916  
 
                             
 
                                       
Accumulated depreciation
                                       
At January 1, 2004
    5,657,593       3,613,309       334,951       937,589       10,543,442  
Reclassification upon purchase of aircraft under a finance lease
    40,746       (40,746 )                  
Charge for the year
    1,367,462       583,935       85,761       245,037       2,282,195  
Disposals
    (283,444 )           (28,503 )     (51,093 )     (363,040 )
 
                             
At December 31, 2004
    6,782,357       4,156,498       392,209       1,131,533       12,462,597  
 
                             
 
                                       
Net book value At December 31, 2004
    16,836,333       10,332,356       1,861,806       1,189,824       30,220,319  
 
                             
Net book value At December 31, 2003
    16,505,625       7,343,117       1,889,569       1,100,592       26,838,903  
 
                             

F-26


Table of Contents

    CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES CORPORATION LIMITED
 
    NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
12   FIXED ASSETS (CONTINUED)
 
(a)   In January 2004, the Company exercised its right upon settlement and termination of a finance lease arrangement to purchase an aircraft at a consideration equal to the present value of the remaining minimum lease payments on the date of the purchase. As part of the finance lease arrangement, the Company is entitled to receive a rebate in the amount of RMB98,921,000 if it meets certain conditions as defined in the lease arrangement.
 
    All the conditions to receive such rebate had been satisfied and the amount was received in February 2004 and was recognized as an adjustment to the carrying value of the aircraft to which the rebate relates.
 
(b)   On June 30, 2001, the fixed assets were revalued by an independent valuer registered in PRC on a market value basis. The revalued amount were not materially different from the carrying values of these fixed assets. On December 31, 2002, the Group’s fixed assets were revalued by the directors of the Company on a market value basis. The difference between the valuation and the carrying amount of the fixed assets as at 31 December 2002 was recognized. On December 31, 2004, the directors of the Company reviewed the carrying value of the Group’s fixed assets as at December 31, 2004 and are of the opinion that the carrying amount is not materially different from the fair value.
 
    Had the Group’s fixed assets been stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and impairment losses as of December 31, 2003, the carrying amounts of aircraft and flight equipment, buildings, and other fixed assets and equipment would have been RMB23,628,586,000, RMB1,889,569,000 and RMB1,100,592,000 respectively, and as of December 31, 2004 would have been RMB27,015,718,000, RMB1,861,806,000 and RMB1,189,824,000 respectively.
 
(c)   Certain aircraft of the Group with an aggregate carrying value of approximately RMB9,735,106,000 and RMB13,032,759,000 as of December 31, 2003 and 2004 were pledged as collateral under certain loan agreements (see note 23).
 
13   Construction in progress
                 
    December 31,  
    2003     2004  
    RMB’000     RMB’000  
At January 1
    413,812       219,788  
Additions
    249,737       178,065  
Transfer to fixed assets (note 12)
    (443,761 )     (209,199 )
 
           
At December 31
    219,788       188,654  
 
           

F-27


Table of Contents

    CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES CORPORATION LIMITED
 
    NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
14   LEASE PREPAYMENTS
 
    Lease prepayments represent unamortized prepayments for land use rights.
 
    The Group’s land use rights are located in the PRC and majority of these land use rights have terms of 50 years from the date of grant. As at December 31, 2003 and 2004, majority of these land use rights had remaining terms ranging from 43 to 49 years and 42 to 48 years respectively.
 
    Certificates of certain land use rights with nil carrying value of the Group are currently registered under the name of CEA Holding. The procedures to change the registration of the land use rights certificates with the relevant municipal land bureaus are currently being addressed by CEA Holding. Until the completion of these transfer procedures, the Group is unable to assign or pledge these land use rights. However, the Group currently has no need to assign and no intention to pledge these land use rights. In addition, the Group is entitled to lawfully and validly occupy and use these lands for its daily operations in spite of the fact that the procedures of changing the registration of these land use rights have not been fully completed. Accordingly, the directors of the Company do not believe the lack of certificates of certain land use rights has any material impact on the financial position of the Group.
 
15   INVESTMENTS IN ASSOCIATES
                 
    December 31,  
    2003     2004  
    RMB’000     RMB’000  
Share of net assets
    572,818       609,130  
Goodwill
    53,266       47,060  
 
           
 
    626,084       656,190  
 
           

    Movements in investments in associates are as follows:-
                 
    2003     2004  
    RMB’000     RMB’000  
At January 1
    331,570       626,084  
Cost of investment
    327,252       35,362  
Share of results before taxation
    (28,511 )     (4,112 )
Share of taxation (note 7(a))
    (4,227 )     (1,144 )
 
           
At December 31
    626,084       656,190  
 
           

    For the years ended December 31, 2004, the share of results before taxation includes RMB6,206,000 (2003: RMB6,206,000) amortization charge of goodwill in respect of acquisition of associates, and a provision of RMB51,200,000 (2003: RMB28,000,000) for a receivable from a shareholder of an associate.

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Table of Contents

    CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES CORPORATION LIMITED
 
    NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
15   INVESTMENTS IN ASSOCIATES (CONTINUED)
 
    Particular of the principal associates, all of which are limited companies established and operating in the PRC, are as follows:
                                 
          Paid-up   Attributable equity    
    Place and date of       capital   interest   Principal
Company   establishment   RMB’000   2003   2004   activities
China Eastern Airlines Wuhan Co., Ltd.
  PRC
August 16, 2002
    600,000       40 %     40 %   Provision of air transportation services
 
                               
Eastern Air Group Finance Co., Ltd.
  PRC
December 6, 1995
    400,000       25 %     25 %   Provision of financial services to companies comprising CEA Holding
 
                               
Eastern Aviation Advertising Services Co.
  PRC
March 4, 1986
    10,000       45 %     45 %   Provision of aviation advertising agency services
 
                               
China Eastern Air Catering Investment Co., Ltd.
  PRC
November 17, 2003
    350,000       45 %     45 %   Provision of air catering services
 
                               
China Eastern Aviation Import and Export Corporation
  PRC
June 9, 1993
    80,000       45 %     45 %   Provision of aviation equipment, spare parts and tools trading
 
                               
Shanghai Dongmei Aviation Travel Co., Ltd.
  PRC
October 17, 2003
    31,000       45 %     45 %   Provision of traveling and accommodation agency services
 
                               
Qingdao Liuting International Airport Co., Ltd.
  PRC
December 1, 2000
    450,000       25 %     25 %   Provision of airport operation services

F-29


Table of Contents

    CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES CORPORATION LIMITED
 
    NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
16   GOODWILL AND NEGATIVE GOODWILL
                         
            Negative        
    Goodwill     Goodwill     Total  
    RMB’000     RMB’000     RMB’000  
Cost
                       
 
At January 1, 2004 and December 31, 2004
    113,105       (55,245 )     57,860  
 
                 
 
Accumulated amortization
                       
 
At January 1, 2004
    28,275       (8,920 )     19,355  
Charge for the year
    5,654       (3,452 )     2,202  
 
                 
At December 31, 2004
    33,929       (12,372 )     21,557  
 
                 
Net book value
                       
 
At December 31, 2004
    79,176       (42,873 )     36,303  
 
                 
 
At December 31, 2003
    84,830       (46,325 )     38,505  
 
                 

17   ADVANCES ON AIRCRAFT AND FLIGHT EQUIPMENT
                 
    December 31,  
    2003     2004  
    RMB’000     RMB’000  
At January 1
    3,227,720       2,239,893  
Additions
    1,198,242       1,996,990  
Interest capitalized during the year
    97,414       57,120  
Transfer to fixed assets
    (2,283,483 )     (1,615,400 )
 
           
At December 31
    2,239,893       2,678,603  
 
           

    Included in the balances as of December 31, 2003 and 2004 are interest capitalized of RMB130,965,000 and RMB160,016,000 respectively.

F-30


Table of Contents

    CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES CORPORATION LIMITED
 
    NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
18   OTHER LONG-TERM RECEIVABLES AND INVESTMENTS
                 
    December 31,  
    2003     2004  
    RMB’000     RMB’000  
Long-term bank deposits (note 22)
    1,743,924       1,908,398  
Deposits for aircraft under operating leases
    110,812       133,159  
Prepaid custom duty and valued added tax
    37,410       21,083  
Prepayments and other long-term receivables
    70,216       139,966  
 
           
 
    1,962,362       2,202,606  
 
           

19   TRADE PAYABLES AND NOTES PAYABLES
 
    As of December 31, 2003 and 2004, all trade payables were current balances and aged within 30 days.
 
    As of December 31, 2003 and 2004, all notes payables were unsecured, interest free and repayable in six months.
 
20   OTHER PAYABLES AND ACCRUED EXPENSES
                 
    December 31,  
    2003     2004  
    RMB’000     RMB’000  
Amounts due to related companies (note 34(a)(i))
    771,643       138,968  
Accrued fuel cost
    697,652       1,290,038  
Accrued take-off and landing charges
    703,994       749,458  
Current portion of accrued aircraft overhaul expenses (note 21)
    385,168       539,249  
Other accrued operating expenses
    603,260       427,294  
Accrued salaries, wages and benefits
    138,954       333,910  
Flight equipment purchase payable
    147,775       289,232  
Airport construction levy payable
          243,295  
Levies collected from ticket sales on behalf of overseas tax authorities
    82,862       218,915  
Duties and levies payable
    10,049       188,627  
Airport expenses related to provision of ground services
    42,320       98,162  
Current portion of provision for staff housing allowances (note 30 (b))
    85,973       93,427  
Current portion of long-term payables (note 27)
    30,000       30,000  
Current portion of post- retirement benefit obligations (note 29(b)(i))
    19,750       27,500  
Amounts due to minority shareholders
    156,308        
Others
    424,281       685,574  
 
           
 
    4,299,989       5,353,649  
 
           

F-31


Table of Contents

    CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES CORPORATION LIMITED
 
    NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
21   ACCRUED AIRCRAFT OVERHAUL EXPENSES
                 
    2003     2004  
    RMB’000     RMB’000  
At January 1
    547,813       576,552  
Additional provisions
    123,213       244,625  
Over provision
    (59,456 )     (20,814 )
Utilized during the year
    (35,018 )     (85,154 )
 
           
At December 31
    576,552       715,209  
 
           
                 
    December 31,  
    2003     2004  
    RMB’000     RMB’000  
Total accrued aircraft overhaul expenses
    576,552       715,209  
Less: current portion (note 20)
    (385,168 )     (539,249 )
 
           
Long-term portion
    191,384       175,960  
 
           

    Accrued aircraft overhaul expenses represent present value of estimated costs of major overhauls for aircraft and engines under operating leases. Under the relevant operating leases, the Group has the responsibility to fulfill certain overhaul requirements and to return the aircraft and engines in certain specified conditions.
 
22   OBLIGATIONS UNDER FINANCE LEASES
 
    The Group had 18 aircraft and 22 aircraft under finance leases as of December 31, 2003 and 2004 respectively. Under the terms of the leases, the Group has the option to purchase, at or near the end of the lease term, certain aircraft at fair market value and others at either fair market value or a percentage of the respective lessor’s defined cost of the aircraft.

The future minimum lease payments, interest and present value of minimum lease payments which are principally denominated in foreign currencies, under these finance leases as of December 31, 2003 and 2004 were as follows:-
                                                 
    December 31,  
            2003                     2004        
                    Present                     Present  
                    value of                     value of  
    Minimum             minimum     Minimum             minimum  
          lease                   lease           lease                   lease  
    payments     Interest     payments     payments     Interest     payments  
    RMB’000     RMB’000     RMB’000     RMB’000     RMB’000     RMB’000  
Within one year
    2,049,079       356,995       1,692,084       1,526,981       337,333       1,189,648  
In the second year
    1,242,950       256,355       986,595       1,962,208       262,372       1,699,836  
In the third to fifth year inclusive
    4,361,682       322,316       4,039,366       3,924,600       168,346       3,756,254  
After the fifth year
    408,853       26,012       382,841       2,401,578       385,030       2,016,548  
 
                                   
Total
    8,062,564       961,678       7,100,886       9,815,367       1,153,081       8,662,286  
Less: amount repayable within one year
    (2,049,079 )     (356,995 )     (1,692,084 )     (1,526,981 )     (337,333 )     (1,189,648 )
 
                                   
Long-term portion
    6,013,485       604,683       5,408,802       8,288,386       815,748       7,472,638  
 
                                   

F-32


Table of Contents

    CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES CORPORATION LIMITED
 
    NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
22   OBLIGATIONS UNDER FINANCE LEASES (CONTINUED)
 
    As of December 31, 2003 and 2004, the Group had long-term bank deposits and U.S. Treasury zero coupon bonds totaling RMB2,329,660,000 and RMB1,908,398,000 respectively, pledged as securities under certain finance lease arrangements (see note 18). All of these bank deposits and the U.S. Treasury zero coupon bonds will be used to meet future lease obligations as they fall due.
 
    In addition, the Group’s finance lease obligations are secured by the related aircraft, the relevant insurance policies and bank guarantees.
 
23   LONG-TERM BANK LOANS
                 
    December 31,  
    2003     2004  
    RMB’000     RMB’000  
Bank loans
               
- secured
    6,495,507       5,912,958  
- unsecured
    4,727,416       4,823,302  
 
           
Total
    11,222,923       10,736,260  
Less: amount repayable within one year
    (2,250,734 )     (3,193,432 )
 
           
Long-term portion
    8,972,189       7,542,828  
 
           

The bank loans are repayable as follows:-

                 
    December 31,  
    2003     2004  
    RMB’000     RMB’000  
Within one year
    2,250,734       3,193,432  
In the second year
    2,438,574       2,386,862  
In the third to fifth year inclusive
    4,163,578       3,216,181  
After the fifth year
    2,370,037       1,939,785  
 
           
Total
    11,222,923       10,736,260  
 
           

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Table of Contents

    CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES CORPORATION LIMITED
 
    NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
23   LONG-TERM BANK LOANS (CONTINUED)
 
    The terms of long-term bank loans can be summarized as follows:
                     
         
      December 31,
    Interest rate and final   2003   2004
    maturities   RMB’000   RMB’000
RMB denominated bank loans:
                   
Loans for working capital
 
Fixed interests rates ranging from 4.94% to 5.76% per annum as at 31 December 2004; 3-year loans with final maturity through to 2007
    1,306,700       1,710,100  
 
                   
Loans for the purchases of aircraft
 
Fixed interest rate of 5.18% per annum as at 31 December 2004; 2 to 8-year loans with final maturity through to 2012
          880,000  
 
                   
Loans for construction
projects
 
Fixed interest rate of 5.76% per annum as at 31 December 2004; 7 to 10-year loans with final maturities through to 2007
    637,500       412,500  
 
                   
U.S. dollar denominated bank loans:
                   
Loans for the purchases of aircraft
 
Fixed interest rates ranging from 5.65% to 6.86% per annum and floating interest rates ranging from 3 months LIBOR +0.25% to 6 months LIBOR +0.3% as at 31 December 2004; 2 to 10-year loans with final maturities through to 2013
    9,278,723       7,703,037  
 
                   
Loan for the purchase of an aircraft simulator
 
Floating interest rates of 6 months LIBOR +0.6% as at 31 December 2004; 3-year loans with final maturity in 2007
          30,623  
 
                   
 
Total long-term bank loans
        11,222,923       10,736,260  
 
                   

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Table of Contents

    CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES CORPORATION LIMITED
 
    NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
23   LONG-TERM BANK LOANS (CONTINUED)
 
    All secured bank loans as of December 31, 2003 and 2004 respectively of the Group for the purchases of aircraft were secured by the related aircraft (note 12(c)). In addition, certain secured bank loans with aggregate amount of RMB1,456,320,000 and RMB1,162,186,000 as of December 31, 2003 and 2004 respectively were also guaranteed by Export-Import Bank of the United States, China Industrial and Commercial Bank and China Construction Bank.
 
    Certain unsecured bank loans of the Group with aggregate amount of RMB1,944,200,000 and RMB2,122,600,000 as of December 31, 2003 and 2004 respectively were guaranteed by CEA Holding (note 34(b)).
 
24   SHORT-TERM BANK LOANS
 
    Short-term bank loans of the Group are repayable within one year with interest charged at the prevailing market rates based on the rates quoted by the People’s Bank of China. The interest rates related to such loans were between 2.06 % and 5.04% per annum and between 2.22% and 5.04% per annum as of December 31, 2003 and 2004 respectively. During the years ended December 31, 2003 and 2004, the weighted average interest rates on short-term bank loans were 3.34% and 3.81% per annum respectively.
 
25   SHARE CAPITAL
                 
    December 31,  
    2003     2004  
    RMB’000     RMB’000  
Registered, issued and fully paid of RMB1.00 each A shares
               
State-owned shares held by CEA Holding
    3,000,000       3,000,000  
Shares held by public
    300,000       300,000  
 
           
 
    3,300,000       3,300,000  
Overseas listed foreign H shares
    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, the A shares held by CEA Holding, employees, the public and H shares are all registered ordinary shares, carrying equal rights.

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Table of Contents

    CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES CORPORATION LIMITED
 
    NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
26   RESERVES
 
    (Amounts in thousands)
                                                                         
            Statutory                                                
            common     Statutory     Discretionary                                    
            reserve     common     common                     Hedging              
    Share     fund     welfare fund     reserve fund     Revaluation     Capital     reserve     Retained        
In RMB   premium     (note (a))     (note (b))     (note (c))     reserve     Reserve     (note 36)     profits     Total  
At January 1, 2002
    1,006,455       96,113       96,113       27,908             (318,486 )     5,396       1,539,859       2,453,358  
Reclassification of revaluation reserve (note (e))
                            401,571       (401,571 )                  
Revaluation surplus of fixed assets
                                                                       
- gross
                            491,772                         491,772  
- tax
                            (73,766 )                       (73,766 )
Revaluation surplus after tax shared by minority shareholders
                            (12,981 )                       (12,981 )
Revaluation deficit offset against previous revaluation surplus of fixed assets
                                                                       
- gross
                            (354,870 )                       (354,870 )
- tax
                            53,231                         53,231  
Unrealized losses on cashflow hedges (note 36)
                                                                       
- gross
                                        (38,602 )           (38,602 )
- tax
                                        4,981             4,981  
Dividends relating to 2001 (note 9)
                                              (97,339 )     (97,339 )
Profit attributable to shareholders
                                              86,369       86,369  
Transfer from retained profits to reserves (note (d))
          10,696       10,614       81                         (21,391 )      
 
                                                     
 
At December 31, 2002
    1,006,455       106,809       106,727       27,989       504,957       (720,057 )     (28,225 )     1,507,498       2,512,153  
 
Unrealized losses on cashflow hedges (note 36)
                                                                       
- gross
                                        (71,573 )           (71,573 )
- tax
                                        10,736             10,736  
Realised losses on cashflow hedges (note 36)
                                                                       
- gross
                                        13,156             13,156  
- tax
                                        (1,973 )           (1,973 )
Release of reserves upon disposals of aircraft
                                                                       
- gross
                            (16,787 )                 16,787        
- tax
                            2,518                         2,518  
Loss attributable to shareholders
                                              (949,816 )     (949,816 )
Transfer from retained profits to reserves (note (d))
          36,689       35,821                               (72,510 )      
 
                                                     
At December 31, 2003
    1,006,455       143,498       142,548       27,989       490,688       (720,057 )     (77,879 )     501,959       1,515,201  
 
                                                     

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Table of Contents

    CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES CORPORATION LIMITED
 
    NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
26   RESERVES (CONTINUED)
 
    (Amounts in thousands)
                                                                         
            Statutory                                                
            common     Statutory     Discretionary                                    
            reserve     common     common                     Hedging              
    Share     fund     welfare fund     reserve fund     Revaluation     Capital     reserve     Retained        
In RMB   premium     (note (a))     (note (b))     (note (c))     reserve     Reserve     (note 36)     profits     Total  
At December 31, 2003
    1,006,455       143,498       142,548       27,989       490,688       (720,057 )     (77,879 )     501,959       1,515,201  
Unrealized losses on cashflow hedges (note 36)
                                                                       
- gross
                                        (7,610 )           (7,610 )
- tax
                                        1,141             1,141  
Realized losses on cashflow hedges (note 36)
                                                                       
- gross
                                        (8,839 )           (8,839 )
- tax
                                        1,326             1,326  
Profit attributable to shareholders
                                              514,075       514,075  
Transfer from retained profits to reserves (note (d))
          35,299       31,837                               (67,136 )      
 
                                                     
At December 31, 2004
    1,006,455       178,797       174,385       27,989       490,688       (720,057 )     (91,861 )     948,898       2,015,294  
 
                                                     

 
(a)   For the year ended December 31, 2004, under the PRC Accounting Regulations, the profit for the year of the Company is used to offset the loss incurred in 2003. Accordingly, no profit appropriation of the Company to reserves has been made for the year ended December 31, 2004. Transfer from retained profits to reserves for the year represents the profit appropriation to reserves of certain subsidiaries of the Company.
 
(b)   Pursuant to PRC regulations and the Company’s Articles of Association, the Company is required to transfer 10% of its profit attributable to shareholders, as determined under the PRC Accounting Regulations, to statutory common reserve fund until the fund aggregates to 50% of the Company’s registered capital.
 
    Statutory common reserve fund can be used to make good previous years’ losses, if any, and to issue new shares to shareholders in proportion to their existing shareholdings or to increase the par value of the shares currently held by them, provided that the balance after such issue is not less than 25% of the registered capital.
 
(c)   Pursuant to PRC regulations and the Company’s Articles of Association, the Company is required to transfer 5% to 10% of its profit for the year, as determined under the PRC Accounting Regulations, to the statutory common welfare fund. This fund can only be used to provide staff welfare facilities and other collective benefits to the Company’s employees. This fund is non-distributable other than in liquidation.

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    CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES CORPORATION LIMITED
 
    NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
26   RESERVES (CONTINUED)
 
(d)   The Company is allowed to transfer 5% of the profit for the year as determined under the PRC Accounting Regulations, to discretionary common welfare fund. The transfer to this reserve is subject to the approval by shareholder’s meetings.
 
(e)   Fixed assets of the Group as of June 30, 1996 were revalued as part of the restructuring of the Group, which resulted in a revaluation surplus that formed part of the Company’s share capital. The reclassification of the revaluation reserve out of capital reserve has been made in 2002 by reducing “capital reserve” and increasing “revaluation reserve”. This change has been done to better present the total amount of revaluation reserve that the Company has since its formation. The revaluation surplus recognized during the restructuring was partially utilized to offset against the revaluation deficit of the same assets arising in 2002 (see note 12(b)). Additional valuation surplus arising in 2002 was credited to the revaluation reserve.
 
27   LONG-TERM PORTION OF OTHER PAYABLE
                 
    December 31,  
    2003     2004  
    RMB’000     RMB’000  
At January 1
    172,250       151,860  
Less: installments paid during the year
    (30,000 )     (30,000 )
 
           
 
    142,250       121,860  
Interest accrued during the year (note 6)
    9,610       8,344  
 
           
At December 31
    151,860       130,204  
Less: Current portion (note 20)
    (30,000 )     (30,000 )
 
           
Long-term portion
    121,860       100,204  
 
           

    Balance is unsecured, accrue interest at an effective rate of 6.21% and is repayable by annual installment of RMB30 million (before taking into account of time value) up to year 2009.
 
28   MINORITY INTERESTS
                 
    December 31,  
    2003     2004  
    RMB’000     RMB’000  
At January 1
    404,517       522,713  
Contributions from minority shareholders
    5,765       218,387  
Dividends paid to minority shareholders
          (60,000 )
Share of profits of subsidiaries
    112,431       150,108  
 
           
At December 31
    522,713       831,208  
 
           

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Table of Contents

    CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES CORPORATION LIMITED
 
    NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
29   RETIREMENT BENEFIT PLANS AND POST-RETIREMENT BENEFITS
 
(a)   Defined contribution retirement schemes

  (i)   Pension
 
      Substantially all of the Group employees are eligible to participate in the Group’s retirement schemes. The Group participates in defined contribution retirement schemes organized by the municipal governments of the various provinces in which the Group operates. The Group is required to make annual contributions to the schemes at rates ranging from 20% to 22% of salary costs including certain allowances calculated in the prior year. Employees contribute at rates ranging from 7% to 8% of their basic salaries. The Group has no other material obligation for the payment of retirement benefits beyond the annual contributions under these schemes. For the years ended December 31, 2003 and 2004, the Group’s pension cost charged to the income statement amounted to RMB82,876,000, RMB121,200,000 and RMB146,500,000 respectively.
 
  (ii)   Medical insurance
 
      In 1998, the State Council announced that each municipal government should introduce a medical insurance scheme for employees and retirees of all enterprises, of which the detailed policies and regulations were to be set out by individual municipal government.
 
      In the end of 2000, the Shanghai Municipal Government promulgated the detailed policies and regulations of its medical insurance scheme. In January 2001, the Group joined this scheme under which the Group and its employees contribute approximately 12% and 2% of the employee’s basic salaries to the scheme respectively. The Group has no other obligation for the payment of medical expense beyond the annual contributions. For the years ended December 31, 2003 and 2004, the Group’s medical insurance contribution charged to the income statement amounted to approximately RMB16,000,000, RMB65,012,000 and RMB76,288,000, respectively.

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Table of Contents

    CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES CORPORATION LIMITED
 
    NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
29   RETIREMENT BENEFIT PLANS AND POST-RETIREMENT BENEFITS (CONTINUED)
 
(b)   Post-retirement benefits
 
    In addition to the above retirement schemes, the Group provides retirees with post-retirement benefits including transportation subsidies, social function activities subsidies as well as other welfare. The expected cost of providing these post-retirement benefits is actuarially determined and recognized by using the projected unit credit method, which involves a number of assumptions and estimates including the rate of inflation, discount rate and employees’ turnover ratio. The post-retirement benefits provided to the retirees have not been funded by the Group, accordingly, there are no plan assets.

  (i)   As of December 31, 2003 and 2004, the post-retirement benefit obligations recognized in the balance sheets of the Group were as follows:
                 
    December 31,  
    2003     2004  
    RMB’000     RMB’000  
Present value of unfunded post-retirement benefit obligations
    514,351       538,428  
Unrecognized actuarial gains
    51,170       51,704  
 
           
Post-retirement benefit obligations
    565,521       590,132  
Less: current portion (note 20)
    (19,750 )     (27,500 )
 
           
Post-retirement benefit obligations - long-term portion
    545,771       562,632  
 
           

  (ii)   Changes in post-retirement benefit obligations are as follows:
                 
    December 31,  
    2003     2004  
    RMB’000     RMB’000  
At January 1
    544,677       565,521  
Current service cost
    13,064       20,849  
Interest on obligation
    27,235       29,857  
Actuarial loss recognized
          998  
Payments made in the year
    (19,455 )     (27,093 )
 
           
At December 31
    565,521       590,132  
 
           

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Table of Contents

    CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES CORPORATION LIMITED
 
    NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
29   RETIREMENT BENEFIT PLANS AND POST-RETIREMENT BENEFITS (CONTINUED)
 
(b)   Post-retirement benefits (Continued)

  (iii)   The costs of post-retirement benefits were recognized under wages, salaries and benefits in the consolidated income statement for the years as follows:-
                 
    December 31,  
    2003     2004  
    RMB’000     RMB’000  
Current service cost
    13,064       20,849  
Interest on obligation
    27,235       29,857  
Actuarial loss recognized
          998  
 
           
Total (note 5)
    40,299       51,704  
 
           

  (iv)   Principal actuarial assumptions at the balance sheet dates are as follows:-
                 
    December 31,  
    2003     2004  
    RMB’000     RMB’000  
Discount rate
    5.00 %     5.00 %
Annual rate of increase of per capita benefit payment
    1.50 %     1.50 %
Employees turnover rate
    3.00 %     3.00 %

30   STAFF HOUSING BENEFITS
 
(a)   Staff housing fund
 
    In accordance with the PRC housing reform regulations, the Group is required to make contribution to the State-sponsored housing fund at a range from 1% to 15% (2003: 1% to 15%) of the specified salary amount of its PRC employees. At the same time, the employees are required to make contribution equal to the Group’s contribution out of their salaries. The employees are entitled to claim the entire sum of the fund contribution under certain specified withdrawal circumstances. For the years ended December 31, 2002, 2003 and 2004, the Group’s contributions to the housing funds amounted to RMB61,179,000, RMB65,300,000 and RMB94,200,000 respectively, which are charged to the income statements.

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Table of Contents

    CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES CORPORATION LIMITED
 
    NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
30   STAFF HOUSING BENEFITS (CONTINUED)
 
(b)   Staff housing allowances
 
    Upon the issuance of the government circulars in 2000, the Company’s directors estimated a provision of approximately RMB80,179,000 for staff housing allowance payable to eligible employees who joined in the Group prior to 1998 with reference to staff housing policies already set out by certain provincial governments then. Such provision for staff housing benefits is included in other payables in the Group’s consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2002.
 
    In October 2003, the Board of directors approved a new staff housing policy (the “New Staff Housing Policy”) which is extended to cover all existing staff who have not been allocated sufficient housing quarters. The benefit level given to the staff under the New Staff Housing Policy is generally higher as compared to the policies to which the Company’s directors made reference in 2000.
 
    Under the New Staff Housing Policy, staff who have not been allocated with any housing quarters or who have not been allocated with a quarter up to the minimum area as set out in the New Staff Housing Policy are entitled to a cash allowance. An eligible staff’s entitlement is calculated based on area of quarter entitled and the unit price as set out in the New Staff Housing Policy. The total entitlement is principally vested over a period of 20 years. Upon an employee’s resignation, his or her entitlement will cease and any unpaid entitlement related to past services will be paid. Upon the establishment of the New Staff Housing Policy, employees are entitled to a portion of the total entitlement already accrued based on his or her past service period. Such entitlement will be paid over a period of 4 to 5 years. The Group recognized a provision of RMB 340,642,000 as related to its present obligation for its employee’s staff housing entitlements, RMB 85,973,000 of which is classified as current portion in other payables in the Group’s consolidated balance sheet as at December 31, 2003 (note 20). The incremental obligation of RMB 260,463,000 for staff housing benefits as a result of the New Staff Housing Policy was charged to the 2003’s income statement.
 
    For the year ended December 31, 2004, the staff housing benefit provided under the New Staff Housing Policy amounted to RMB29,253,000 and is charged to the income statement.

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Table of Contents

    CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES CORPORATION LIMITED
 
    NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
31   SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION TO THE CONSOLIDATED CASHFLOW STATEMENTS
                                 
    Year Ended December 31,  
    2002     2003     2004     2004  
    RMB’000     RMB’000     RMB’000     US$’000  
                            (note 2a)  
Investing activities not affecting cash:
                               
Discounts on aircraft acquisition used for purchases of flight equipment and spare parts
    125,728       50,220              
 
                       
 
Financing activities not affecting cash:
                               
Finance lease obligations incurred for acquisition of aircraft
                3,177,225       383,885  
 
                       

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Table of Contents

    CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES CORPORATION LIMITED
 
    NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
32   COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENT LIABILITIES
 
(a)   Capital commitments
 
    As of December 31, 2003 and 2004, the Group had the following capital commitments:
                 
    December 31,  
    2003     2004  
    RMB’000     RMB’000  
Authorized and contracted for:
               
- Aircraft and related equipment
    7,668,801       8,791,472  
- Other
    358,415       437,574  
 
           
 
    8,027,216       9,229,046  
 
           
 
Authorized but not contracted for:
               
- Aircraft and related equipment
    723,000       3,533,000  
- Other
    1,122,526       2,381,710  
 
           
 
    1,845,526       5,914,710  
 
           
 
 
    9,872,742       15,143,756  
 
           

    The above commitments mainly include amounts for acquisition of ten A320, two A340, four A321 aircraft and two A340 engines for delivery between 2004 and 2005 as of December 31, 2003, and five A320, two A321, twenty A330, six B737, five A319 and five ERJ145 aircraft for delivery between 2005 and 2008 as of December 31, 2004.
 
    Contracted expenditures for the above aircraft and related equipment, including deposits prior to delivery, subject to an inflation increase built in the contracts and any discounts available upon delivery of the aircraft, were expected to be paid as follows:
                 
    December 31,  
         2003          2004  
    RMB’000     RMB’000  
2004
    5,129,692        
2005
    2,539,109       6,945,235  
2006
          1,350,420  
2007
          495,817  
 
           
 
    7,668,801       8,791,472  
 
           

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    CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES CORPORATION LIMITED
 
    NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
32   COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENT LIABILITIES (CONTINUED)
 
(b)   Operating lease commitments
 
    As of December 31, 2003 and 2004, the Group had commitments under operating leases to pay future minimum lease rentals as follows:
                                 
    December 31,  
    2003     2004  
    Aircraft             Aircraft        
    and fight     Land and     and fight     Land and  
    equipment     buildings     equipment     buildings  
    RMB’000     RMB’000     RMB’000     RMB’000  
Within one year
    1,063,619       49,532       1,024,857       19,287  
In the second year
    1,134,669       12,284       1,095,792       14,874  
In the third to fifth year inclusive
    2,735,477       24,413       3,094,495       25,401  
After the fifth year
    1,145,355       11,206       550,310       22,139  
 
                       
 
    6,079,120       97,435       5,765,454       81,701  
 
                       

33   SEGMENT REPORTING
 
(a)   Primary reporting format by business segment
 
    The Group operates in one business segment which is the common carriage of passengers, cargo and mail over various routes authorized by CAAC.

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    CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES CORPORATION LIMITED
 
    NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
33   SEGMENT REPORTING (CONTINUED)
 
(b)   Secondary reporting format by geographical segment
 
    The Group’s turnover and operating profit by geographical segments are analyzed as follows:
                                         
            Hong             Other        
    Domestic     Kong     Japan     countries (*)     Total  
    RMB’000     RMB’000     RMB’000     RMB’000     RMB’000  
2002
                                       
Traffic revenues
                                       
- Passenger
    4,669,731       1,911,016       1,279,083       2,178,000       10,037,830  
- Cargo and mail
    246,146       257,270       535,915       1,405,336       2,444,667  
 
                             
 
    4,915,877       2,168,286       1,814,998       3,583,336       12,482,497  
Other operating revenues
    563,904             10,957       21,631       596,492  
 
                             
Turnover
    5,479,781       2,168,286       1,825,955       3,604,967       13,078,989  
 
                             
Segment results
    (95,766 )     448,359       503,628       152,626       1,008,847  
 
                               
Unallocated income (note 4)
                                    226,373  
Unallocated costs
                                    (171,753 )
 
                                     
Operating profits
                                    1,063,467  
 
                                     
2003
                                       
Traffic revenues
                                       
- Passenger
    5,591,640       1,627,093       977,610       2,064,684       10,261,027  
- Cargo and mail
    279,003       390,088       588,361       1,929,532       3,186,984  
 
                             
 
    5,870,643       2,017,181       1,565,971       3,994,216       13,448,011  
Other operating revenues
    788,811       10,738       8,336       21,262       829,147  
 
                             
Turnover
    6,659,454       2,027,919       1,574,307       4,015,478       14,277,158  
 
                             
Segment results
    (576,838 )     224,683       190,042       322,686       160,573  
 
                               
Unallocated income (note 4)
                                    60,890  
 
                                     
Operating profits
                                    221,463  
 
                                     
2004
                                       
Traffic revenues
                                       
- Passenger
    8,283,701       2,186,810       1,466,070       3,421,033       15,357,614  
- Cargo and mail
    298,846       592,008       647,181       2,890,325       4,428,360  
 
                             
 
    8,582,547       2,778,818       2,113,251       6,311,358       19,785,974  
Other operating revenues
    1,163,205       22,223       16,900       50,474       1,252,802  
 
                             
Turnover
    9,745,752       2,801,041       2,130,151       6,361,832       21,038,776  
 
                             
Segment results
    226,803       388,497       238,192       471,263       1,324,755  
 
                               
Unallocated income (note 4)
                                    154,422  
 
                                     
Operating profits
                                    1,479,177  
 
                                     
 
(*)    include U.S., Europe and other Asian countries

    The major revenue-earning assets of the Group are its aircraft fleet, all of which are registered in the PRC. Since the Group’s aircraft fleet is deployed flexibly across its route network, there is no suitable basis of allocating such assets and the related liabilities to geographical segments and hence segment assets and capital expenditure by segment has not been presented.

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    CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES CORPORATION LIMITED
 
    NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
34   RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
 
(a)   Balances with related companies

  (i)   Amounts due from/to fellow subsidiaries
 
      Amounts due from/to fellow subsidiaries arising from trading activities are unsecured, interest free and with no fixed terms of repayment. As at December 31, 2004, such balances mainly included the following:-
 
      China Eastern Air Northwest Company (“CEA Northwest”)
 
As of December 31, 2003 and 2004, amount of RMB217,680,000 and RMB118,433,000 respectively due to CEA Northwest comprised amount of air tickets sold by CEA but uplift by CEA Northwest and operating lease rental charges for aircraft.
 
      China Eastern Air Yunnan Company (“CEA Yunnan”)

As of December 31, 2003 and 2004, amount of RMB129,789,000 due to CEA Yunnan and RMB42,087,000 due from CEA Yunnan comprised amount of air tickets sold by CEA but uplift by CEA Yunnan and operating lease rental charges for aircraft.
 
      Nanjing Airlines Co., Ltd. (“Nanjing Airlines”)

As of December 31, 2003 and 2004, amount of RMB15,535,000 and RMB44,370,000 respectively due from Nanjing Airlines comprised operating lease rental charges for aircraft.
 
  (ii)   Amounts due from/to associates
 
      China Eastern Airlines Wuhan Co., Ltd. (“CEA Wuhan Airlines”)

As of December 31, 2003 and 2004, amount of RMB36,099,000 and RMB19,063,000 respectively due to CEA Wuhan Airlines comprised amount of air tickets sold by CEA but uplift by CEA Wuhan Airlines and operating lease rental income for operating lease of aircraft.
 
      China Eastern Aviation Import and Export Corporation (“EAIEC”)

As of December 31, 2003 and 2004, amount of RMB509,249,000 and RMB47,093,000 respectively due to EAIEC comprised prepayments and purchases of flight equipment and flight equipment spare parts payable to EAIEC.
 
      Shanghai Dongmei Aviation Travel Co., Ltd. (“SDATC”)

As of December 31, 2003 and 2004, amount of RMB24,940,000 and RMB39,485,000 respectively due from SDATC represented amount of tickets sold by SDATC.
 
  (iii)   Short-term deposits with an associate
 
      The Group has short-term deposits of RMB214,241,000 and RMB413,870,000 as of December 31, 2003 and 2004 respectively placed with Eastern Air Group Finance Co., Ltd. (“EAGF”), an associate. The short-term deposits yield interest at an average rate of 0.72% per annum during the year ended December 31, 2003 and 2004.

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    CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES CORPORATION LIMITED
 
    NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
34   RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS (CONTINUED)
 
(a)   Balances with related companies (continued)

  (iv)   Short-term loans from an associate
 
      The Group has short-term loans of RMB860,000,000 and RMB140,765,000 as of December 31, 2003 and 2004 respectively from EAGF. During the year ended December 31, 2003 and 2004, the weighted average interest rates on the loan were 4.54% per annum and 4.5% per annum respectively.

(b)   Guarantee by the holding company
 
    As of December 31, 2003 and 2004, unsecured long-term bank loans of the Group with aggregate amount of RMB1,944,200,000 and RMB2,122,600,000 respectively are guaranteed by CEA Holding (note 23).
 
(c)   Related party transactions
 
    Except as disclosed in note 8 of the financial statement, the Group had the following material transactions with its related parties during the year ended December 31, 2004, which were, in the opinion of the directors, carried out in the normal course of business:-

  (i)   Sublease arrangement with CEA Northwest
 
      During the year ended December 31, 2004, the Company entered into operating lease agreements with two third-party lessors to lease six A320 aircraft. These aircraft were operated by CEA Northwest from the effective date of the relevant lease to the date of agreement being modified (refer below for details). No agreements were entered into between the Company and CEA Northwest regarding the arrangement, nor written consents obtained from the lessors for the operation of the six A320 by CEA Northwest. Under the lease arrangement, the Company is liable to the lessors for all obligations under the lease agreement. Upon the Board of Directors being notified of the arrangement in August 2004, it appropriately took action and the Company entered into agreements in December 2004 and April 2005 with the third-party lessors, CEA Northwest, and the relevant leasing company to modify the original lease agreement (the “Novation and Amendment Agreements’’) to completely relieve the Company of the lease obligations for the lease arrangements. From the inception of the lease to the effective date of the Novation and Amendment Agreements, the Company charged CEA Northwest the same amount it paid to the third-party lessors for use of the six A320 aircraft.
 
      Under the Novation and Amendment Agreements, the Company was relieved from all obligations related to the original lease arrangements from the inception of the lease and CEA Northwest will become the sole lessee to the amended lease agreements. During 2004, prior to the execution of the Novation and Amendment Agreements, the Company accounted for the arrangement as a sublease, the lease income of RMB83,241,000 from CEA Northwest are recorded as other operating income, and the same amount paid to the third-party lessors as lease expense.

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    CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES CORPORATION LIMITED
 
    NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
34   RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS (CONTINUED)
 
(c)   Related party transactions (Continued)

  (ii)   Rescission of lease arrangements with fellow subsidiaries
 
      During the year ended December 31, 2004, the Group entered into certain lease arrangements to lease aircraft from fellow subsidiaries to operate on certain of the Company’s air routes. In connection with the lease arrangements, the Company operated the aircraft, recognising traffic revenue and expenses, relating to payments to independent third parties for fuel, take-off and landing fees, and other costs related to the operation of those aircraft.
 
      Under PRC Company Law and applicable stock exchange listing rules, certain related party transactions meeting specified thresholds, including lease transactions, require prior approval by the Board of Directors, including the independent directors. Certain of the lease arrangements to lease three A310 aircraft from CEA Northwest and three Bae146 aircraft from Nanjing Airlines, a subsidiary of CEA Northwest, (collectively, the “Leased Aircraft”) in 2004 had not been properly authorized and approved in advance by the Board of Directors. Accordingly, as such lease arrangements were not properly approved in advance, the Board of Directors resolved in August and December 2004 to terminate the lease arrangements, and agreement was reached with CEA Northwest to terminate such arrangements. In connection with the termination of the lease arrangements, the Company and CEA Northwest agreed to retroactively rescind the transactions from the inception of the lease arrangements as permitted under PRC laws. The Company has been advised by its external PRC counsel that under PRC law, a transaction can be rendered invalid from inception upon agreement by all parties. However, under IFRS, because the Group actually operated the Leased Aircraft in its normal business operations during the period from the inception to rescission of the lease, the air traffic revenue of RMB440,864,000 and related operating costs of RMB573,893,000 (including the lease charges of RMB192,098,000 and RMB44,695,000 payable to CEA Northwest and Nanjing Airlines respectively) have been recognized in the financial statements of the Group. The impact of the retroactive rescission of the CEA Northwest lease arrangements was for CEA Northwest and Nanjing Airlines to waive amounts owed by the Group totaling RMB133,029,000 (the “Settlement Amount”), which represents the operating losses incurred on the operation of the Leased Aircraft during 2004. The Settlement Amount was in effect an extinguishment of a financial liability through a reduction of the Group’s inter-company payable account with CEA Northwest or Nanjing Airlines, as applicable. The Settlement Amount was recognized as non-operating income for the year ended December 31, 2004 due to its nature being that of a financing transaction. The action of the Board of Directors to disapprove and retroactively rescind such arrangement, with consent from CEA Northwest or Nanjing, was to ensure that the Group’s financial position being restored to what it would have been had the lease arrangements never been entered into.

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    CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES CORPORATION LIMITED
 
    NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
34   RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS (CONTINUED)
 
(c)   Related party transactions (Continued)

(iii)   In addition to the transaction disclosed above, the Group had the following transactions, with its related parties during the year ended 31 December, 2002, 2003 and 2004:-
                             
        Income/  
        (Expenses, payments or  
        purchase consideration)  
        Year Ended December 31,  
        2002     2003     2004  
Nature of transaction   Related party   RMB’000     RMB’000     RMB’000  
With CEA Holding or companies directly or indirectly held by CEA Holding:-
                           
 
Interest income on deposits at rates of 0.72% in 2002, 2003 and 2004
  EAGF     2,738       4,096       4,897  
 
Interest expenses on loans at rates of ranging from 4.19% to 4.65% per annum in 2002, 4.54% per annum in 2003 and 4.5% per annum in 2004.
  EAGF     (1,373 )     (6,396 )     (1,150 )
 
Commission income on carriage service provided by other airlines with air tickets sold by the Group at fixed rates ranging from 3% to 9% of value of tickets sold
  - CEA Northwest           51,667       93,062  
  - CEA Yunnan           50,442       81,517  
  - CEA Wuhan           28,964       32,396  
     Airlines                        
 
Commission expenses on air tickets sold on behalf of the Group at rates ranging from 3% to 9% of value of tickets sold
 
- Shanghai Tourism Company (Hong Kong) Limited
    (7,944 )     (6,046 )     (13,201 )
  - CEA Northwest           (17,776 )     (14,181 )
  - CEA Yunnan           (10,743 )     (22,494 )
  - Certain other     (39,016 )     (25,466 )     (19,402 )
 
 
subsidiaries of CEA Holding
                       
 
  - CEA Wuhan Airlines           (8,547 )     (32,396 )
 
  - SDATC     (11,302 )     (24,940 )     (8,228 )
 
Handling charges of 0.1% to 2% for purchase of aircraft, flight equipment, flight equipment spare parts and other fixed assets
  EAIEC     (19,311 )     (21,393 )     (34,270 )
 
Ticket reservation service charges for utilisation of computer reservation system
  TravelSky Technology Limited     (72,925 )     (71,884 )     (86,311 )

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    CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES CORPORATION LIMITED
 
    NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
34   RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS (CONTINUED)
 
(c)   Related party transactions (Continued)
                             
        Income/  
        (Expenses, payments or  
        purchase consideration)  
        Year Ended December 31,  
        2002     2003     2004  
Nature of transaction   Related party   RMB’000     RMB’000     RMB’000  
Repairs and maintenance expenses for ground service facilities
  CEA Northwest                 (9,535 )
 
Repairs and maintenance expenses for aircraft and engines
 
Shanghai Eastern Union Aviation Wheels & Brakes Overhaul Engineering Co., Ltd.
    (24,146 )     (25,361 )     (25,445 )
 
Lease rental income from operating lease of aircraft
  CEA Wuhan Airlines           31,209       38,239  
 
Lease rental charges for operating lease of
  - CEA Northwest           (69,118 )     (199,188 )
aircraft
  - Nanjing Airlines           (23,348 )      
 
  - CEA Yunnan           (27,726 )     (86,341 )
 
Source of food and beverages
 
- Eastern Air (Shantou) Economic Development Co., Ltd.
    (46,666 )     (36,413 )     (57,623 )
 
  - China Eastern Air Catering Investment Co., Ltd                 (188,406 )
 
  - Shanghai Eastern Air Catering Co., Ltd     (117,242 )     (96,984 )      
 
  - Qilu Eastern Air Catering Co., Ltd.     (8,824 )     (5,285 )      
 
  - Qingdao Air Service Co., Ltd.     (12,751 )     (2,518 )      
 
Advertising expenses
 
Eastern Aviation Advertising Service Co., Ltd. (“EAASC”)
    (4,857 )     (2,676 )     (5,629 )

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    CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES CORPORATION LIMITED
 
    NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
34   RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS (CONTINUED)
 
(c)   Related party transactions (Continued)
                             
        Income/  
        (Expenses, payments or  
        purchase consideration)  
        Year Ended December 31,  
        2002     2003     2004  
Nature of transaction   Related party   RMB’000     RMB’000     RMB’000  
Purchase of aviation equipment
 
Shanghai Eastern Aviation Equipment Manufacturing Corporation
    (8,394 )     (3,149 )     (14,850 )
 
Rental expenses
 
Shanghai Eastern Aviation Equipment Manufacturing Corporation
    (4,509 )     (5,945 )     (5,582 )
 
Investment in China Eastern Air Real Estate Investment Co., Ltd., a company 95% owned by CEA Holding
  CEA Holding                 (5,000 )
 
Investment in an associate, China Eastern Aviation Import and Export Corporation, a company 55% owned by CEA Holding
  CEA Holding           (43,820 )      
 
Investment in an associate, China Eastern Air Catering Investment Co., Ltd., 55% interests of which is owned by CEA Holding
  CEA Holding           (157,500 )      
 
Investment in an associate, Shanghai Dongmei Aviation Travel Co., Ltd., 55% interests of which is owned by CEA Holding
  CEA Holding           (6,828 )      
 
Additional investment in an associate, EAASC, 55% interests of which is owned by CEA Holding
  CEA Holding     (15,762 )            

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Table of Contents

    CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES CORPORATION LIMITED
 
    NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
34   RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS (CONTINUED)
 
(c)   Related party transactions (Continued)

  (iv)   Other related party arrangements with CEA Northwest/CEA Yunnan
 
      In addition to the related party transactions disclosed above, the Company also has other non-monetary arrangements with CEA Northwest and CEA Yunnan as follows:
 
      Air routes - In the PRC, air routes are assigned by CAAC. The Company has permitted CEA Northwest and CEA Yunnan to use some of the air routes allocated to the Company during the year of 2004 at no charge to CEA Northwest or CEA Yunnan, as applicable, as the Company did not have sufficient capacity to fully utilise those air routes.
 
      Inter-airline billing code - As with all other airlines in the PRC, the Company pays a processing fee to CAAC for use of the ticket settlement system based on the volume of the tickets processed. At the direction of CAAC, the Company has permitted CEA Northwest and CEA Yunnan to use the Company’s unique inter-airline billing code (“781”) at no incremental charge other than amounts paid to CAAC to facilitate ticket settlement between the airlines. Internal administrative cost for ticket handling and processing are not charged to CEA Northwest and CEA Yunnan.
 
  (v)   Related party transaction of an associate
 
      China Eastern Air Catering Investment Co., Ltd, an associate of the Company in which the Company and CEA Holding hold 45% and 55% interest respectively, acquired certain subsidiaries from CEA Holding in an aggregate consideration of RMB263,804,000 during the year ended December 31, 2004.

(d)   In accordance with a specific exemption in IAS 24, “Related Party Disclosure”, the Group does not accumulate or disclose transactions with other state-owned enterprises as related party transactions.

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    CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES CORPORATION LIMITED
 
    NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
35   FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT
 
    Financial assets of the Group mainly include short-term deposits and bank balances, deposits with and amounts due from related companies, trade receivables, long-term receivables, bank deposits, short-term investments and derivative assets. Financial liabilities of the Group include bank and other loans, obligations under finance leases, amounts due to related companies, trade payables, notes payables, derivative liabilities and other payables.
 
(a)   Business risk
 
    The operations of the air transportation industry are substantially influenced by global political and economic development. Accidents, wars, natural disasters, etc. may have material impact on the Group’s operations or the industry as a whole. In addition, the Group conducts its principal operations in the PRC and accordingly is subject to special consideration and significant risks not typically associated with companies in the United States of America and Western Europe. These include risks associated with, among others, the political, economic and legal environment, competition and influence of CAAC in the PRC civil aviation industry.
 
(b)   Price risk
 
    The Group’s results of operations may be significantly affected by the fluctuation of the fuel prices which is a major expense category. While the international fuel prices are determined by worldwide market demand and supply, domestic fuel prices are regulated by CAAC. It is the Group’s plan to strengthen the control over the fuel price risk through financial derivatives.
 
(c)   Interest rate risk
 
    The Group has significant bank borrowings and is exposed to risk arising from changes in market interest rates. To hedge against the variability in the cashflow arising from a change in market interest rates, the Group entered into certain interest rate swaps during the years ended December 31, 2003 and 2004 (see note 36(a)). The interest rates and terms of repayment of loans made to the Group are disclosed in notes 22, 23 and 24.
 
(d)   Credit risk
 
    The Group has no significant concentrations of credit risk. The Group has policies in place to ensure that sales of products and services are made to customers with an appropriate credit history. The Group also receives deposit from customers and counter-parties, where appropriate, if they require credit. A major portion of sales is conducted through sales agents and majority of these agents is connected to various settlement plans and/or clearing systems which have tight requirements on credit standing of these agents.

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    CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES CORPORATION LIMITED
 
    NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
35   FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT
 
(d)   Credit risk (Continued)
 
    Transactions in relation to derivative financial instruments are only carried out with financial institutions of high reputation. The Group has policies that limit the amount of credit exposure to any one financial institution..

  (i)   Deposits with an associate and cash and bank balances
 
      Substantially all the Group’s cash and bank balances are placed with a number of international and PRC banks and an associate, EAGF. Amount placed with any one institution is subject to a cap. Regular assessment of credit ratings on these institution has been performed. Details of deposits placed with EAGF have been disclosed in note 34(a)(iii).
 
  (ii)   Trade receivables
 
      These are mainly tickets sales receivable from sales agents and receivables related to uplifts by the Company on behalf of other carriers which are spread among numerous third parties.
 
  (iii)   Other receivables
 
      These are spread among numerous third parties.

(e)   Liquidity risk
 
    The Group’s primary cash requirements have been for additions of and upgrades on aircraft and flight equipment and payments on related debts. The Group finances its working capital requirements through a combination of funds generated from operations and short-term bank loans. The Group generally acquires aircraft through long-term finance leases. To take advantage of the low interest rate for long-term loans, recently the Group also purchased certain number of aircraft through long-term loans from banks in the PRC.
 
    The Group generally operates with a working capital deficit. As of December 31, 2003 and 2004, the Group’s net current liabilities amounted to RMB 9,941 million and RMB 12,502 million respectively. For the years ended December 31, 2003 and 2004, the Group recorded net cash inflows from operating activities of RMB3,163 million and RMB 3,266 million, respectively, net cash outflows from investing activities and financing activities of RMB3,541 million and RMB 2,745 million, respectively and a decrease in cash and cash equivalents of RMB378 million and an increase of RMB521 million respectively.
 
    The directors of Company believe that cash from operations and short-term bank borrowings will be sufficient to meet the Group’s operating cashflow. Due to the dynamic nature of the underlying businesses, the Group treasury aims at maintaining flexibility in funding by keeping credit lines available. The directors of the Company believe that the Group has obtained sufficient general credit facilities from PRC banks for financing future capital commitments and for working capital purposes.

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    CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES CORPORATION LIMITED
 
    NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
35   FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT (CONTINUED)
 
(f)   Foreign currency risk
 
    The Group’s finance lease obligation as well as certain bank and other loans are denominated in US dollars, Japanese Yen and Euro, and certain expenses of the Group are denominated in currencies other than RMB. The Group generates foreign currency revenues from ticket sales made in overseas offices and would normally generate sufficient foreign currencies after payment of foreign currency expenses, to meet its foreign currency liabilities repayable within one year. RMB against US dollars had been comparatively stable in the past. However, RMB against Japanese Yen and Euro had experienced a significant level of fluctuation over the past two years which is the major reason for the significant exchange differences recognized by the Group for the years ended December 31, 2003 and 2004.
 
    The Group enters into certain foreign currency forward contracts with PRC banks to hedge against foreign currency risk (see note 36).
 
(g)   Fair value
 
    The carrying amounts and estimated fair values of significant financial assets and liabilities as of December 31, 2003 and 2004 are set out below:–
                                 
    December 31,  
    2003     2004  
    Carrying             Carrying        
    amount     Fair value     amount     Fair value  
    RMB’000     RMB’000     RMB’000     RMB’000  
Long-term bank loans
    11,222,923       10,131,805       10,705,637       9,878,592  
Obligations under finance leases
    7,100,886       7,069,346       8,662,286       8,382,324  
Long-term bank deposits
    1,743,924       1,840,139       1,908,398       1,990,832  
 
                       

    The fair values of the long-term bank loans, obligation under finance leases and long-term bank deposits are estimated by applying a discounted cashflow approach using current market interest rates for similar indebtedness/investment.
 
    The fair value of cash and bank balances, trade receivables, other receivables, amounts due from and to related companies, trade payables, notes payables, other payables and short-term bank loans are not materially different from their carrying amounts because of the short maturities of these instruments.
 
    Fair value estimates are made at specific point in time and are based on relevant market information. This estimate is subjective in nature and involves uncertainties and matters of significant judgement and therefore cannot be determined with precision. Changes in valuation methods and assumptions could significantly affect the estimates.

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    CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES CORPORATION LIMITED
 
    NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
36   DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
                 
    Assets     Liabilities  
    RMB’000     RMB’000  
At December 31, 2003
               
Interest rate swaps (note (a))
    2,814       40,390  
Forward foreign exchange contracts (note (b))
          54,047  
 
           
 
    2,814       94,437  
 
           
 
               
At December 31, 2004
               
Interest rate swaps (note (a))
    11,571       19,447  
Forward foreign exchange contracts (note (b))
          100,196  
 
           
 
    11,571       119,643  
 
           

(a)   Interest rate swaps
 
    The Group uses interest rate swaps to reduce risk of changes in market interest rates (note 35(c)). The interest rate swaps entered into by the Group generally for swapping variable rates, usually reference to LIBOR, with fixed rates. The Group’s interest rate swaps fulfill the criteria for hedge accounting and are accounted for as cashflow hedge. As of December 31, 2003 and 2004, the notional amounts of the outstanding interest rate swap agreements were approximately US$164 million and US$437 million respectively. For the years ended December 31, 2003 and 2004, net loss of RMB315,000 and a net gain of RMB29,700,000 respectively arising from changes in the fair value of the interest rate swaps subsequent to initial recognition are recognized directly in the hedging reserve (see note 26).
 
(b)   Forward foreign exchange contracts
 
    The Group uses currency forward contracts to reduce risks of changes in currency exchange rates in respect of ticket sales and expenses denominated in foreign currencies (note 35(f)). These contracts were generally entered for sales of Japanese Yen and purchases of U.S. dollars at fixed exchange rates. The Group’s currency forward contracts qualify for hedge accounting and are accounted for as cashflow hedges of firm commitments. As of December 31, 2003 and 2004, the notional amounts of the outstanding currency forward contracts were approximately US$237 million and US$226 million respectively. These currency forward contracts will expire between 2006 and 2010. For the years ended December 31, 2003 and 2004, net losses of RMB58,102,000 and RMB46,149,000 arising from changes in the fair value of these foreign currency forwards subsequent to initial recognition are recognized directly in the hedging reserve (see note 26).

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    CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES CORPORATION LIMITED
 
    NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
37   ULTIMATE HOLDING COMPANY
 
    The directors regard CEA Holding, a company established in the PRC, as being the immediate holding and the ultimate holding company.
 
38   POST BALANCE SHEET DATE EVENTS
 
(a)   On March 2, 2005, the Company entered into an agreement with United Technologies Far East Limited (“UTFEL”), to establish Hamilton Sundstrand (Shanghai) Aerospace Technology Limited (“HSSATL”), a jointly controlled entity which will be principally engaged in the provision of repair and maintenance services for auxiliary power units of aircraft in the PRC. The registered capital of HSSATL is US$8,900,000, which is to be contributed by the Company and UTFEL in proportion of 51% and 49% respectively.
 
(b)   Pursuant to the CAAC’s airline industry restructuring plan, EA Group merged with Yunnan Airlines Company and China Northwest Airlines Company and formed CEA Holding in October 2002. Yunnan Airlines Company and China Northwest Airlines Company were restructured as wholly-owned subsidiaries of CEA Holding after the merger and renamed as China Eastern Air Yunnan Company (“CEA Yunnan”) and China Eastern Air Northwest Company (“CEA Northwest”), respectively. CEA Yunnan is based in Kunming, Yunnan Province in China with approximately 25 jet aircraft and serves primarily the southwestern region of China. CEA Northwest is based in Xi’an, Shanxi Province in China with approximately 35 jet aircraft and serves primarily the northwestern region of China.
 
    The Group have agreed to acquire from CEA Holding certain assets and liabilities relating to the aviation businesses of CEA Yunnan and CEA Northwest pursuant to a conditional assets transfer agreement entered into with CEA Holding, CEA Yunnan and CEA Northwest on May 12, 2005 (the “Acquisition Agreement”). Following the completion of the Acquisition Agreement, the Group will assume and undertake the aviation operations and businesses currently carried out by CEA Yunnan and CEA Northwest in accordance with the Acquisition Agreement. The total consideration payable by the Group under the Acquisition Agreement is approximately RMB986 million, which will be adjusted by the profit generated or loss incurred by the aviation businesses of CEA Yunnan and CEA Northwest during the period from December 31, 2004 through the effective date of the Acquisition Agreement, which is expected to be June 30, 2005. The amount of such profit/loss will be determined with reference to the relevant financial statements prepared under PRC Accounting Standards and Regulations, to be audited by independent PRC accountants jointly appointed by the Company and the CEA Holding. This consideration consists of an initial consideration of approximately RMB690 million payable within five days from the effective date and the balance payable upon the fulfillment of certain conditions.
 
    The Group has obtained the requisite approvals from relevant regulatory authorities in China and Hong Kong for this acquisition and has submitted the Acquisition Agreement for approval by our independent shareholders at the annual general meeting for the year of 2004 which is scheduled to be held on June 30, 2005 in Shanghai, China.
 
    Under IFRS, the transaction will be accounted for using acquisition accounting. Under US GAAP, the proposed transaction is considered a transaction under common control and will be accounted for at historical cost basis upon the consummation of such transaction. Any amounts paid versus the historical cost of the assets transferred should be treated as an adjustment to equity. Additionally, the Company’s financial statements under US GAAP will be retroactively restated for all years presented.

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Table of Contents

    CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES CORPORATION LIMITED
 
    NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
39   SIGNIFICANT DIFFERENCES BETWEEN IFRS AND U.S.GAAP
 
    Differences between IFRS and U.S.GAAP which have significant effects on the consolidated profits/(loss) attributable to shareholders and consolidated owners’ equity of the Group are summarized as follows:
 
    Consolidated profit/(loss) attributable to shareholders
 
    (Amounts in thousands except per share data)
                                         
            Year Ended December 31,  
                                    2004  
            2002     2003     2004     US$  
    Note     RMB     RMB     RMB     (note 2a)  
As stated under IFRS
            86,369       (949,816 )     514,075       62,113  
U. S. GAAP adjustments:
                                       
Reversal of difference in depreciation charges arising from revaluation of fixed assets
    (a )     20,370       63,895       57,568       6,956  
Reversal of revaluation deficit of fixed assets
    (a )     171,753                    
Profit/(loss) on disposals of aircraft and related assets
    (b )     (26,046 )     (10,083 )     7,099       858  
Rescission of related party lease arrangements
    (c )                 (133,029 )     (16,073 )
Others
    (d )     23,767       6,860       (1,518 )     (183 )
Deferred tax effect on U. S. GAAP adjustments
    (e )     (28,477 )     (9,101 )     10,482       1,265  
 
                               
As stated under U. S. GAAP
            247,736       (898,245 )     454,677       54,936  
 
                               
 
Basic and fully diluted earnings/(loss) per share under U. S. GAAP
            RMB 0.051       (RMB 0.185     RMB 0.093     US$ 0.011  
 
                               
Basic and fully diluted earnings/(loss) per American Depository Share (“ADS”) under U. S. GAAP
             RMB5.09   (RMB18.46 RMB 9.34     US$ 1.13  
 
                               

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Table of Contents

    CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES CORPORATION LIMITED
 
    NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
39   SIGNIFICANT DIFFERENCES BETWEEN IFRS AND U.S.GAAP (CONTINUED)

Consolidated owners’ equity
    (Amounts in thousands)
                                 
            December 31,  
                            2004  
            2003     2004     US$  
    Note     RMB     RMB     (note 2a)  
As stated under IFRS
            6,382,151       6,882,244       831,540  
U. S. GAAP adjustments:
                               
Reversal of net revaluation surplus of fixed assets
    (a )     (908,873 )     (908,873 )     (109,814 )
Reversal of difference in depreciation charges and accumulated depreciation and loss on disposals arising from the revaluation of fixed assets
    (a),  (b)     691,235       755,902       91,331  
Others
    (d )     35,971       34,453       4,163  
Deferred tax effect on U. S. GAAP adjustments
    (e )     9,225       (247 )     (29 )
 
                         
As stated under U. S. GAAP
            6,209,709       6,763,479       817,191  
 
                         

 
Notes:-

(a)   Revaluation of fixed assets
 
    Under IFRS, fixed assets of the Group are initially recorded at cost and are subsequently restated at revalued amounts less accumulated depreciation. Under U.S. GAAP, the revaluation surplus or deficit and the related difference in depreciation are reversed since fixed assets are required to be stated at cost less accumulated depreciation.
 
(b)   Disposals of aircraft and related assets
 
    This represents the loss on disposal of aircraft and related assets during the year. Under U.S. GAAP, fixed assets are required to be stated at cost. Under IFRS, fixed assets are stated at cost or revalued amounts. Accordingly, the accumulated depreciation and the gain or loss on disposals of aircraft is different under IFRS and U.S. GAAP and is attributable to the surplus or deficit arising on the valuation of the assets that are disposed.

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Table of Contents

    CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES CORPORATION LIMITED
 
    NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
39   SIGNIFICANT DIFFERENCES BETWEEN IFRS AND U.S.GAAP (CONTINUED)

  (c)   Rescission of related party lease arrangements
 
      The Company entered into certain lease arrangements with CEA Northwest and Nanjing Airlines to lease three A310 aircraft and three Bae146 aircraft in 2004 that were subsequently terminated and retroactively rescinded (note 34(c)(ii)). The impact of the retroactive rescission of the lease arrangements with CEA Northwest was an aggregate settlement by CEA Northwest and Nanjing Airlines in the amount of RMB133 million (the “Settlement Amount”), which represents the operating losses incurred on the operation of the CEA Northwest Leased Aircraft during 2004, to the Group through the reduction of the Group’s inter-company payable accounts with CEA Northwest or Nanjing Airlines, as applicable.
 
      Under IFRS, the Settlement Amount was recognized as non-operating income for the year ended 31 December 2004 and was in effect an extinguishment of a financial liability through a reduction of the Group’s inter-company payable accounts with CEA Northwest or Nanjing Airlines, as applicable.
 
      Under U.S. GAAP, the Settlement Amount, through reduction of the Group’s intercompany payable account of CEA Holding’s wholly owned subsidiary, was deemed as the principal shareholder incurring costs on behalf of the Company and was recognized as a capital contribution in accordance with Staff Accounting Bulletin Topic 5-T (“SAB Topic 5-T”). Any cost incurred by the principal shareholder on behalf of its subsidiary are required to be reflected in the subsidiary’s financial statements as an expense and a corresponding capital contribution unless the principal shareholders actions are completely unrelated to its position as a shareholder under SAB Topic 5-T.
 
  (d)   Other U. S. GAAP adjustments
 
      The application of U.S. GAAP differs in certain other respects from IFRS, mainly relating to sale and leaseback transactions, post retirement benefits and goodwill. Under US GAAP: i) recognition of gain on sale and leaseback transactions is deferred and amortized, ii) transitional obligations for post retirement benefits are amortized over the average remaining service period of active plan participants, and iii) goodwill is reviewed for impairment and is not amortized.
 
  (e)   Deferred tax effect
 
      These represent the corresponding deferred tax effect as a result of the adjustments stated in (a), (b), (c) and (d) above.

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Table of Contents

    CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES CORPORATION LIMITED
 
    NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
39   SIGNIFICANT DIFFERENCES BETWEEN IFRS AND U.S.GAAP (CONTINUED)

  (f)   Segmental disclosures
 
      The Group adopted SFAS No. 131, “Disclosures about Segments of an Enterprise and Related Information”. The Group has a route network designed to transport passengers and cargo between destinations in China, Hong Kong, and selected international destinations in Japan, U.S., Australia, South Korea, Thailand, Singapore and a number of European countries. China, Hong Kong, and International constitute the Group’s three reportable geographical segments. SFAS No.131 requires that segment financial information be disclosed under the management approach that is consistent with how the Group’s management internally desegregates financial information for the purpose of making internal operating decisions. The Group evaluates revenue information of its operating segments based on unaudited management operational information prepared under PRC Accounting Regulations.
                                 
            Unaudited management operational  
            information under PRC Accounting  
            Regulations for the  
            Year Ended December 31,  
    Note     2002     2003     2004  
            RMB’000     RMB’000     RMB’000  
Traffic revenues
                               
Domestic
                               
Passenger
            5,288,611       5,854,542       8,122,783  
Cargo
            235,470       256,661       273,431  
 
                         
Subtotal
            5,524,081       6,111,203       8,396,214  
 
                         
Hong Kong
                               
Passenger
            1,937,313       1,622,538       2,208,271  
Cargo
            268,944       394,246       611,471  
 
                         
Subtotal
            2,206,257       2,016,784       2,819,742  
 
                         
International
                               
Passenger
            3,526,852       3,036,214       4,929,866  
Cargo
            2,014,785       2,561,529       3,749,739  
 
                         
Subtotal
            5,541,637       5,597,743       8,679,605  
 
                         
 
            13,271,975       13,725,730       19,895,561  
 
                         

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Table of Contents

    CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES CORPORATION LIMITED
 
    NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
39   SIGNIFICANT DIFFERENCES BETWEEN IFRS AND U.S.GAAP (CONTINUED)

  (f)   Segmental disclosures (Continued)

  (i)   The Group operates in one business segment which is the common carriage of passenger, cargo and mail over various routes. In the PRC management accounts, revenue is split between passenger and cargo for management review purpose. The directors consider it is appropriate to report such information in these financial statements.
 
  (ii)   Traffic revenues by routes are attributed to each geographical segment based on the final destination / origin of each flight route. For international and Hong Kong routes with a domestic segment, revenues for the entire route are attributed to each geographical segment based on the final destination / origin of the route.
 
  (iii)   The Group’s international revenues are generated from its international routes to and from countries including Japan, U.S., Australia, South Korea, Thailand, Singapore and selected European countries. Among these countries, the Group generates from Japan routes its largest share of international revenue (note: the Group generated revenues, under IFRS, of RMB1,814,998,000, RMB1,565,971,00 and RMB2,113,251,000 from its Japan routes in 2002, 2003 and 2004 respectively).
 
  (iv)   The traffic revenue figures as stated above are different from the Group’s audited PRC statutory accounts and the Group’s audited IFRS accounts due to the following reasons:-

    The management made use of this operational information before closing of accounts for each accounting period. Accordingly, estimates (which are generally within a discrepancy of 5% on total actual revenues) have been incorporated into this operational information for timely decision making purposes.
 
    Certain discounts granted to sales agents and customers have not been set-off against revenues under management operational information.

  (v)   The major revenue-generating assets of the Group are its aircraft fleet, all of which are registered in the PRC. Since the Group’s aircraft fleet is deployed flexibly across its route network, there is no suitable basis of allocating such assets and the related liabilities to geographical segments.

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Table of Contents

    CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES CORPORATION LIMITED
 
    NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
39   SIGNIFICANT DIFFERENCES BETWEEN IFRS AND U.S.GAAP (CONTINUED)

  (g)   New pronouncements
 
      IFRS
 
      For the year beginning January 1, 2005, the Group will adopt IFRS3 “Business Combinations”. IFRS 3 will replace IAS22 “Business Combinations”. Under IFRS3, goodwill will be carried at cost less accumulated impairment losses and will no longer be amortized but instead, it will be tested annually for impairment. IFRS3 requires prospective adoption and management does not believe the adoption of IFRS3 would have a material effect on the Group’s financial position or results of operations.
 
      U.S.GAAP
 
      SFAS No. 151
 
      In November 2004, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued SFAS No. 151, “Inventory Costs - an amendment of ARB No. 43, Chapter 4”. SFAS No. 151 requires abnormal amounts of idle facility expense, freight, handling costs, and wasted materials (spoilage) be recognized as current-period charges. In addition, this Statement requires that allocation of fixed production overheads to the costs of conversion be based on the normal capacity of the production facilities. SFAS No. 151 is effective for inventory costs incurred during fiscal years beginning after June 15, 2005. Management does not believe the adoption of SFAS No. 151 would have a material effect on the Group’s financial position or results of operations.
 
      SFAS No. 153
 
      In December 2004, the FASB issued SFAS No. 153, “Exchanges of Non monetary Assets, an amendment of APB Opinion No. 29”. SFAS No. 153 requires exchanges of productive assets to be accounted for at fair value, rather than at carryover basis, unless (1) neither the asset received nor the asset surrendered has a fair value that is determinable within reasonable limits or (2) the transactions lack commercial substance. SFAS No. 153 is effective for non monetary asset exchanges occurring in fiscal periods beginning after June 15, 2005. Management does not believe the adoption of SFAS No. 153 would have a material effect on the Group’s financial position or results of operations.

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    CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES CORPORATION LIMITED
 
    NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
39   SIGNIFICANT DIFFERENCES BETWEEN IFRS AND U.S.GAAP (CONTINUED)

  (g)   New pronouncements (Continued)
 
      EITF Issue No. 03-01
 
      In March 2004, the Emerging Issues Task Force (“EITF”) reached a consensus on Issue No. 03-01 “The Meaning of Other-Than-Temporary Impairment and Its Application to Certain Investments” (“EITF No. 03-01”). EITF No. 03-01 provides recognition and measurement guidance on the meaning of other-than-temporary impairment and its application to certain investments carried at cost, including investments in marketable securities accounted for under SFAS No. 115, “Accounting for Certain Investments in Debt and Equity Securities”. Additionally, EITF No. 03-01 provides disclosure requirements of the investor when determining if an investment is impaired. The recognition and measurement guidance in EITF No. 03-01 has been postponed but the disclosure requirement under the EITF are effective for financial statements for 2004. Management does not believe the adoption of the recognition and measurement requirements of EITF No. 03-01 would have a material effect on the Group’s financial position or results of operations.
 
      EITF Issue No. 02-14
 
      In June 2004, the EITF reached a consensus on Issue No. 02-14 “Whether the Equity Method of Accounting Applies When an Investor Does Not Have an Investment in Voting Stock of an Investee but Exercises Significant Influence through Other Means” (“EITF No. 02-14”). EITF No. 02-14 provides guidance that an investor should only apply the equity method of accounting when it has investments in either common stock or in-substance common stock of a corporation, provided that the investor has the ability to exercise significant influence over the operating and financial policies of the investee. The EITF defined in-substance common stock as an investment that has risk and reward characteristics that are substantially similar to common stock. EITF No. 02-14 is effective for reporting periods beginning after September 15, 2004. Management does not believe the adoption of EITF No. 02-14 would have a material effect on the Group’s financial position or results of operations.
 
      EITF Issue No. 04-01
 
      In September 2004, the EITF reached a consensus on Issue No. 04-01 “Accounting for Pre-existing Relationships between the Parties to a Business Combination” (“EITF No. 04-01”) and states that the consummation of a business combination between two parties that have a pre-existing contractual relationship should be evaluated to determine if a settlement of the pre-existing contractual relationship occurred. Additionally, the EITF provides guidance on the measurement and recognition of the pre-existing relationship. The provisions of EITF No. 04-01 are applicable to business combinations completed in reporting periods after October 13, 2004. Management does not believe the adoption of EITF No. 04-01 would have a material effect on the Group’s financial position or results of operations.

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Exhibit Index

     
Exhibits   Description
1.1
  Articles of Association (English translation). (1)
 
   
2.1
  Specimen Certificate for the H Shares.(2)
 
   
2.2
  Form of Deposit Agreement among the Registrant, The Bank of New York, as depositary, and Owners and Beneficial Owners from time to time of American Depositary Receipts.(3)
 
   
4.1
  Office Space Lease Agreement between our company and Eastern Air Group Company (together with English translation).(2)
 
   
4.8
  Employee Housing Lease Agreement between our company and Eastern Air Group Company
(together with English translation).(2)
 
   
4.9
  Aircraft Purchase Agreement dated October 9, 2004 between our company and Airbus SAS.(4)
 
   
4.10
  Amendment No. 9 to the A320 Purchase Agreement dated April 21, 2005 between our company and Airbus SAS.(4)
 
   
4.11
  Assets Transfer Agreement dated May 12, 2005 between our company, CEA Holding, CEA Northwest and CEA Yunnan (English translation).
 
   
8.1
  List of subsidiaries.
 
   
11.1
  Code of Ethics (English translation).(1)
 
   
12.1
  Certification of President pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a).
 
   
12.2
  Certification of CFO pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a).
 
   
13.1
  Certification of President pursuant to Rule 13a-14(b).
 
   
13.2
  Certification of CFO pursuant to Rule 13a-14(b).

___________________________________________________________
 
(1)   Incorporated by reference to our annual report on Form 20-F (File No. 001-14550), filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on June 28, 2004.
 
(2)   Incorporated by reference to our Registration Statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-6260), filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 9, 1997.
 
(3)   Incorporated by reference to our Registration Statement on Form F-6 (File No. 333-6284), filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission with respect to American Depositary Shares representing our H shares.
 
(4)   Portions of the agreement have been omitted pursuant to a confidential treatment request and will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission separately upon request.