AVIC’s AS700 "Auspicious Cloud" Airship Delivers New Era for China’s Low-Altitude Tourism

Aviation Industry Corp of China (AVIC) has officially delivered the country's first homegrown AS700 manned airship, named "Xiangyun" or "Auspicious Cloud," to Jianshui Science and City in Shaoxing, Zhejiang Province.

This milestone, achieved by the Special Vehicle Research Institute, marks a critical step toward the commercial operation of a new form of low-altitude tourism, offering scenic flights for up to 10 passengers.

The distinctive, cloud-inspired airship, measuring 50 meters long, glided into its dedicated hangar in Yuecheng district, signaling the start of a new chapter for China's low-altitude economy.

As the first manned airship developed in full compliance with national airworthiness regulations, the AS700 boasts complete independent intellectual property rights, a testament to China's growing prowess in advanced aviation manufacturing. The delivery was reported by the Global Times.

Thanks to its unique "low-altitude, slow-flight" characteristics, the airship is perfectly suited for tourism. It is designed to cruise at an optimal sightseeing altitude of 100-300 meters, providing passengers with an unparalleled, immersive bird's-eye view of the picturesque Jiangnan waterway region. This peaceful, panoramic experience is something traditional ground travel simply cannot replicate, offering a serene alternative to noisy helicopters.

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"The delivery marks a new beginning for the in-depth collaboration between the Special Vehicle Research Institute and Yuecheng district," stated a representative from the institute, according to the Global Times.

The partnership is aimed at building a complete industrial chain for manned airships and fostering a broader low-altitude economic ecosystem. In the coming months, the airship will undergo further flight verification tests in Yuecheng to advance its path to full commercial certification.

Concurrently, the institute is laying the groundwork for future operations by advancing personnel training. The first batch of three AS700 pilots is soon expected to complete their specialized training, ensuring professional support is ready when public flights begin. With a maximum range of 700 kilometers, the "aerial beluga" is not just a sightseeing vehicle but a platform with potential for various low-altitude applications.

The successful development and delivery of the AS700 is more than a single product launch; it represents a strategic move into the burgeoning low-altitude economy. Through continued technological innovation, AVIC aims to contribute to the high-quality development of this sector in China.

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The airship is expected to be open to the public as soon as next year, pending final certifications, potentially making the sight of these graceful "auspicious clouds" a common feature in skylines across the country.