The first tourist airship has been launched into the sky in China.

Recently, a Xiangyun AS700 airship, known as the "air beluga," landed in Yuecheng, located in Shaoxing, Zhejiang Province. This is the first manned AS700 to arrive in Eastern China and was delivered to the Jian Shui Science and Technology Center. According to the Institute of Special Vehicle Research under the China Aviation Industry Corporation, this event marks a significant step towards the commercial use of manned airships.

New Horizons for Chinese Aviation

Developed entirely by Chinese specialists, the AS700 has become the first airship to meet all national airworthiness standards. It can accommodate up to ten passengers and cover a distance of up to 700 kilometers. With a length of 50 meters and a streamlined shape resembling a cloud, the airship has been named "Xiangyun," which translates to "auspicious cloud."

The developers emphasize that "the AS700 is capable of flying at low altitudes at low speeds, ensuring a high level of safety and reliability."

From an altitude of 100 to 300 meters, the airship offers its passengers unique views of the waterways and picturesque landscapes of the Jiangnan region. Experts note that this mode of tourism opens up new opportunities for exploring local attractions that are inaccessible by conventional ground routes.

Readiness for Commercial Flights

In the coming months, the airship will conduct additional test flights in Yuecheng to prepare for commercial launch. It is expected that the pilot school will begin its operations for the general public next year after obtaining all necessary certifications. As part of the preparation, the first three AS700 pilots are already being trained to provide professional support in future operations.

The project aims to create a comprehensive production chain for manned airships and to establish an economic ecosystem for low-altitude aviation. Experts believe that technological innovations in this field can contribute to the economic growth of regions with low population density and expand opportunities for domestic airship manufacturing.

Representatives of the institute stated: "Our project illustrates how scientific research can transform into real industrial solutions, opening new horizons for tourism and the economy of China." This was reported by "Rambler."

Source: news.rambler.ua