can i get a China visa without the plane ticket yet because i dont have the exact date of my business trip?

I have been going to China several times already. my last trip was last year. I have to come to Beijing this September but I dont know yet the exact date because i am waiting for my indian counterpart to give me the schedule. however i need to apply for a business visa now because i have to go to Indonesia and Singapore from Sep. 11 to 20th. Can I be allowed to apply for a visa without the plane ticket yet?