The SiC-coated carbon fibre (SiC-C composite fibre) was prepared by the carbothermic reduction of silica. The composite fibre was examined by X-ray diffraction, scanning electromicroscopy and chemical analysis. Thermogravimetry was used to determine the reduction rate of silica, and the formation mechanism of the SiC film was revealed by a kinetic study. The oxidation resistance of the composite fibre was evaluated by heating in an oxygen gas stream.