The AS700, China's independently developed civil manned airship, arrived in Yangshuo, Guilin, Guangxi on Aug 21, marking the completion of its first long-distance inter-provincial transfer flight.

The airship is known for its green, low-carbon, safe, and economical features, capable of short-distance flights and vertical takeoffs and landings. With a maximum takeoff weight exceeding 4 metric tons and a maximum range of 700 kilometers, it can accommodate up to 10 passengers.

The airship flew nearly 1,000 kilometers over the course of 12 hours and 44 minutes. During this period, the development team primarily tested the airship's performance, as well as its capabilities for long-duration and long-range transfer flights. Subsequently, the airship will undergo flight sensation tests to provide insights for future commercial operations.

Once in commercial operation, this type of airship can be utilized not only for low-altitude tourism but also for a variety of other applications, including low-altitude transportation, aerial surveying, and emergency rescue operations.

China's independently-developed AS700 civil manned airship completes its first trans-provincial ferry flight on Aug 21, 2024. [Photo/CCTV]