From:ChinaDaily | 2021-03-12 07:46
Aviation Industry Corp of China, the nation s major aircraft maker, is developing an airship to meet potential demand from tourists, according to a project insider.
Zhang Jinhua, a senior designer at the Special Aircraft Research Institute, an AVIC subsidiary in Jingmen, Hubei province, that designs blimps and other types of special aircraft, said engineers are finalizing the design work for the AS700 airship and expect to carry out its maiden flight in the second half of this year.
The blimp s research and development started in August 2018, aiming to meet tourist demand for sightseeing air tours, he said, adding that the project is also a result of the government s favorable policies for general aviation business and low-altitude airspace tourism.
AVIC floats idea of airships for tourists
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An artist s impression of the AS700 airship. (Photo provided to China Daily)
Aviation Industry Corp of China, the nation s major aircraft maker, is developing an airship to meet potential demand from tourists, according to a project insider.
Zhang Jinhua, a senior designer at the Special Aircraft Research Institute, an AVIC subsidiary in Jingmen, Hubei province, that designs blimps and other types of special aircraft, said engineers are finalizing the design work for the AS700 airship and expect to carry out its maiden flight in the second half of this year.
The blimp s research and development started in August 2018, aiming to meet tourist demand for sightseeing air tours, he said, adding that the project is also a result of the government s favorable policies for general aviation business and low-altitude airspace tourism.