Airshow China 2024 wraps up with record-breaking attendance and highlights in aerospace innovation

The 15th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition, also known as Airshow China, concluded in Zhuhai on Sunday. Showcasing cutting-edge advancements in aerospace technology, the event attracted significant public interest with nearly 600,000 visitors.

This year's exhibition featured 1,022 exhibitors from 47 countries and regions, including 159 international companies, a 104 percent-increase compared to the previous event. Contracts signed during the show totaled over 280 billion yuan (approximately $38.7 billion).

Stealth fighters and aerobatic performances steal the show

This year, the highly anticipated J-35A medium-sized stealth fighter made its debut, alongside the HQ-19 surface-to-air missile system. Additionally, the cargo hold of Y-20 transport aircraft was opened to the public for the first time.

Among the exhibition's highlights were China's J-20 and J-35A stealth fighter jets and Russia's Su-57 fighter jet, which performed spectacular flying displays. This marked the first time these three advanced stealth fighters were showcased together at Airshow China.

Watch more: J-35A, J-20 and Su-57 steal the show in Zhuhai

Airshow China 2024: J-15 and J-35 fighter jets designed to operate from aircraft carriers

The Bayi Aerobatic Team, the Red Eagle Aerobatic Team, and 26 aircrafts of seven different types, including J-20, J-16 fighter jets and the YY-20A, also wowed audiences with dynamic aerial performances.

This year, the Chinese People's Liberation Army Air Force presented 36 types of equipment in flight displays and ground exhibitions, showcasing significant advancements in aviation and defense technology, noted military expert Zhang Xuefeng.

"The event reflected the phased progress of China's equipment development in a comprehensive and systematic way. The advancements in stealth fighter jets, air defense systems and overall military technology demonstrates China's growing capabilities in modern aerospace," Zhang told the China Media Group.

Unmanned systems and emerging technologies

This year introduced a dedicated exhibition area for unmanned systems for the first time, featuring the latest advancements in unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and unmanned ships.

The newly introduced pavilion that focuses on low-altitude economy highlighted innovations in practical aviation solutions, including cost-effective helicopters and technologies aimed at revolutionizing urban transportation. Cutting-edge technologies such as single-person jetpacks, economical flying taxis, and manned aircraft compact enough to fit in a car trunk offered a glimpse into how science fiction concepts are becoming reality.

Lunar exploration on display

Another standout attraction was the Chang'e-6 lunar mission exhibition, which showcased samples collected from the far side of the moon. Visitors marveled at the return capsule, parachute and other mission artifacts, making this booth one of the most popular at the show.

Watch more: China's Chang'e-6 moon sample wows global audience at Airshow China