In Yuecheng, which is part of the city of Shaoxing in Zhejiang province, the Xiangyun AS700 airship recently landed. This airship, nicknamed the "air beluga," has become the first manned vessel of this model delivered to Eastern China and is now located at the Jian Shui Science and Technology Center. Scientists from the Institute of Special Vehicle Research under the China Aviation Industry Corporation noted that this event is significant for the commercial use of airships.
The potential of Chinese aviation
The AS700 was fully developed by Chinese specialists and has become the first manned airship that meets all national airworthiness standards. It can carry up to ten passengers over a distance of up to 700 kilometers, and its length is 50 meters. Thanks to its streamlined shape resembling a cloud, the airship was named "Xiangyun," which translates to "favorable cloud."
Developers emphasize that the AS700 is capable of flying at low altitudes at low speeds, providing a high level of safety and reliability.
At an altitude of 100 to 300 meters, the airship offers passengers the opportunity to enjoy the picturesque landscapes and waterways of the Jiangnan region. Experts believe that this type of tourism opens new horizons for exploring local attractions that are inaccessible through conventional ground routes.
Preparation for commercial flights
In the near future, the airship will undergo additional test flights in Yuecheng to prepare for commercial launch. It is expected that the pilot school will begin operations for the general public next year after receiving all necessary certifications. As part of the preparation, three AS700 pilots are being trained to provide professional support for future flights.
The project aims to create a comprehensive industrial chain for manned airships and to form an economic ecosystem for low-altitude aviation. Experts note that technological innovations in this field could contribute to economic growth in regions with low population density and expand opportunities for domestic airship manufacturing.
“Our project illustrates how scientific achievements can be transformed into real industrial solutions, opening new prospects for tourism and the economy of China,” said representatives of the institute. This was reported by "Rambler."
Source: news.rambler.ua
