The Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC) has announced that the 'Xiangyun' AS700 manned airship, often dubbed the 'White Whale in the Sky,' has recently arrived at Jianshui Tech City, situated in Yuecheng District, Shaoxing, Zhejiang Province. The airship smoothly entered its designated hangar, marking the official delivery of the first AS700 manned airship in Eastern China. This event represents a significant milestone in the commercial operation of manned airships.

Developed independently by AVIC's Special Aircraft Research Institute, the AS700 manned airship is China's inaugural manned airship built in accordance with airworthiness standards and with complete independent intellectual property rights. With a total length of 50 meters and a maximum range of 700 kilometers, it can comfortably accommodate 10 passengers. In the near future, the AS700 manned airship will undergo flight verification in Yuecheng District, aiming to accelerate the process of commercial operation. It is scheduled to be accessible to the public next year.