China has embarked on a significant step towards enhancing its low-altitude economy by initiating a trial run for a new intercity low-altitude air route. The route connects Kunshan City in Jiangsu Province to Shanghai and is operated by Shanghai New Sky Helicopter Co., Ltd.
The new service aims to drastically reduce the travel time between the two cities from approximately 1.5 to 2 hours by road to just 30 minutes by air. On August 10, a commercial helicopter successfully completed a test flight, taking off from Kunshan’s city terminal and landing at Shanghai’s Pudong flight base in just over half an hour. The helicopter reached an altitude of 285 meters and achieved a maximum speed of close to 200 kilometers per hour, showcasing the efficiency of this new mode of transportation.
The service is scheduled to officially launch on August 18, with ticket prices ranging from 1,600 to 1,800 yuan (about $224 to $252) per trip. The route is expected to attract between 20,000 and 30,000 passengers annually, generating over 10 million yuan in economic benefits.
This initiative not only offers a faster alternative for commuters but also signifies China’s commitment to developing its low-altitude aviation sector. By leveraging low-altitude airspace, China aims to boost economic growth, enhance regional connectivity, and provide innovative travel solutions for both business and leisure travelers.
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China launches trial run of intercity low-altitude air route
cgtn.com
