The newly restructured Avic appears to be primarily interested in attracting Chinese-born technicians and managers who have worked in the military and aviation industries in the west. However, Avic officials said they were open to hiring people of all nationalities.

“We certainly welcome Chinese students and Chinese scholars visiting abroad to come back and serve their country, but if foreigners meet our requirements they are also welcome,” said Gao Jianshe, executive vice- president and a member of the company's Communist party committee. “The key to attracting talent is attracting hearts, and we are building a nest to attract a phoenix.”

Judging from previous recruitment drives by Chinese state-owned companies, the chances of Avic hiring foreign nationals are slim.