"The AS700 airship represents the highest level of technology and development capability in the field of manned airships in China," said Jin Tao, deputy head of the AVIC Special Vehicle Research Institute.

According to Jin, the AS700 is not only suited for low-altitude sightseeing, but can also be used in various low-altitude application scenarios such as aerial advertising, urban security, aerial surveying and emergency rescue operations.

"Eyeing the vast skies of the low-altitude sector, we are exploring more innovative types of airships and application scenarios. Electric-powered airships, unmanned airships and other innovative models are in the planning phase," Jin said.