The Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC) has recently unveiled a training facility for the AS700 civil manned airship it has developed, in which would-be pilots can receive training to adapt themselves to the realistic flying circumstances on the airship.
The training facility was designed to simulate the realistic environment for pilots, enabling them to effectively manipulate the airship as if they were operating it in real-world conditions, according to Wan Yishuang, chief designer of the Special Aircraft Research Institute under the AVIC.
"Actual controls can offer us a simulation airfield traffic pattern, as well as scenarios including takeoff and landing, climbing, cruising and diving, as well as landing. Plus, pilots can engage in simulation training for emergency circumstances, such as one-engine or twin-engine failure. If we are familiar with all kinds of operating conditions in advance inside the training facility, the pilots will be more skilled in operation," Wan said.
The homegrown AS700 civil manned airship made a successful maiden ferry flight in central China's Hubei Province on March 30, and the first commercial AS700 is scheduled to be delivered by the end of this year.
The single-capsule manned airship has a maximum capacity carrying 10 passengers, including a pilot. It has a maximum takeoff weight of 4,150 kg, a maximum flight range of 700 km, and a maximum endurance of 10 hours.
Training facility for AS700 civil manned airship unveiled
