Chongqing - A manned flight from Chongqing to Sichuan recently took off, marking Southwest China's first successful cross-provincial, low-altitude visual flight route.

The flight, operated by a Cessna 172, took off from Chongqing Liangjiang Longxing General Airport and traveled 180 kilometers per hour to Zigong, Sichuan. The aircraft, capable of carrying three passengers, reached a peak altitude of 1,200 meters, offering a distinctive travel experience.

In its pilot phase, the initiative seeks to improve operational processes and support systems, with plans to establish regular flight services later this year.

This flight demonstrates the progress in developing the Chengdu-Chongqing economic circle, showcasing low-altitude airspace's role in driving economic growth and regional integration.

At the inaugural flight event, Sichuan and Chongqing's military-civilian development offices signed a memorandum to enhance low-altitude airspace collaboration and optimize the use of airspace resources in surrounding areas.

Per the memorandum, the regions will link additional inter-provincial low-altitude visual routes, exchange aviation information, and establish a flight alliance to forge aerial pathways.

"Sichuan and Chongqing's collaboration to build the country's first inter-provincial low-altitude visual flight route is akin to creating an 'air highway' between provinces," explained an official from Chongqing's integrated military-civilian development office. "This route will streamline flight approval processes and enhance safety for all aircraft within this corridor." 

Both parties aim to expand low-altitude visual flight routes and exchange vital aviation information, enhancing flight services and regional short-distance transport.

The official also highlighted the critical role of low-altitude airspace resources in the growth of the low-altitude economy, underscoring that the sector's expansion depends on their accessibility and efficient utilization.

The low-altitude economy encompasses economic activities facilitated by using low-altitude airspace, typically up to 3,000 meters above ground level, involving both manned and unmanned aircraft. This emerging sector is gaining traction globally due to its vast potential to revolutionize transportation, logistics, and several other industries.