news said 003 will launch on August, i guest possible before 1/10 independent day too
installing the catapults i believe will install during 2 year retrofit time
If correct, Than decision more like short sight. it can use 2 elevator first, 3nd elevator can be familiar later, since AC will use 40 year, PLAN can take there time for learn 3nd elevator.
3 elevator it also can be good training and experience for later AC too.
Also 003 operation mostly in china water & South china Sea, distance not too far, 1 year just need re-fuel 2-3 time, cost refuel each year should be not more than 100 million rmb