China has licensed its first group of domestically trained commercial airship pilots, marking a milestone for the country’s growing low-altitude aviation industry and AS700 airship program.
China’s civil aviation sector has licensed the country’s first group of domestically trained commercial airship pilots, marking a step forward for the nation’s emerging low-altitude aviation industry.
The four pilots received commercial pilot licenses issued by the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) on May 6th, according to the Special Vehicle Research Institute under the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC). The pilots came from both the airship developer and customer companies.
The training program followed a CAAC-approved syllabus that combined classroom study, simulator exercises and flight operations. Trainees completed more than 400 takeoff and landing sessions using the domestically developed “Xiangyun” AS700 manned airship before passing final assessments.
AVIC said the AS700 has received 44 orders so far. Based on current operating plans, each airship will require two to three pilots, creating growing demand for trained personnel as China expands low-altitude aviation services.
The institute said it plans to expand pilot and instructor training programs and establish the country’s first dedicated airship flight school.
Among the newly licensed pilots is Feng Xingfei, 43, from east China’s Shandong Province. Feng previously worked as a university counsellor before leaving his job to pursue flight training. Before joining the institute in 2025, he had logged more than 3,600 flight hours.
Despite his flying experience, Feng said operating an airship presents unique challenges.
“Flying an airship is no easier than flying an aeroplane,” he said. “The aircraft responds more slowly to control inputs, especially during landing, which requires very precise handling.”
Additional reporting by Xinhua, Hubei Daily.
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