The 2025 PLA Air Force aviation open-day event and Changchun Airshow concluded on September 23 in Changchun, Jilin Province, after five days of performances that combined military precision with cutting-edge aerospace technology. Under the theme "Chasing Dreams in the Sky, Winning the Future," the event offered spectators a front-row seat to China's evolving air power and its strides in aviation innovation.

As the closing ceremony got underway, the PLA Air Force Band struck up rousing melodies that echoed across the venue, setting the stage for a final day of aerial drama. The skies above Changchun became a canvas for extraordinary feats as parachute teams and aerobatic squadrons took to the air, while advanced fighter jets demonstrated their capabilities in a display that left the crowd in awe.

The day's proceedings kicked off with two Y-12D aircraft soaring into the sky, followed by the Bayi and Lanying parachute teams. Jumpers descended from high altitude, unfurling large, vibrant flags that fluttered against the blue backdrop, symbolizing China's aerial sovereignty. This was followed by a parachute delivery demonstration by airborne troops, who landed with pinpoint accuracy, showcasing the air force's strategic airlift capabilities to the amazement of onlookers.

The Hongying (Red Eagle) Aerobatic Team, comprising eight JL-8 trainer aircraft from the PLA Air Force Aviation University, then took center stage. The aircraft performed intricate formation changes, at times streaking across the sky like arrows released from a bow, and it executed graceful rolls and dives. A particular highlight was when two aircraft created a giant heart shape in the sky using white smoke trails, eliciting cheers from the crowd. "Seeing that heart filled me with emotion," said Mr. Feng, a spectator. "Coming right after the September 18 Memorial Day, this romantic display by the air force made me truly appreciate their dedication to protecting our nation and people and how far our country has come."

The aerial refueling demonstration by a YY-20A tanker and two J-16 fighter jets was another crowd-pleaser, highlighting the air force's extended-range combat capabilities. The Yunyou-20A extended its refueling booms to both J-16s simultaneously, demonstrating a complex maneuver that significantly enhances the fighters' operational range. "Every meter we fly adds an extra layer of security to our nation's skies," said Tan Hongmei, a YY-20A pilot. Following the refueling display, the J-16s performed aerial stunts, including steep climbs and rolls, showcasing their agility and power. "What the audience sees isn't just an aerial ballet, but the hard power that ensures we can win battles," explained J-16 pilot Yang Haopeng.

The much-anticipated appearance of four J-20 stealth fighters was undoubtedly the highlight of the day. The aircraft formed a large diamond formation, circling the venue with constant bank angle and speed, in a display that combined aesthetic appeal with combat readiness testing. The formation then split into two pairs, performing a tactical cross-through maneuver, with aircraft converging from different directions and altitudes before passing each other in a split second. "These are our homegrown fighter jets, they're so cool!" exclaimed Jiang Shuaike, a junior high school student from Jilin City, jumping up in excitement. "That roar is the sound of our nation's strength. As a middle school student, my life goal has become clearer – I want to join the air force and protect our motherland's vast skies."

The PLAAF August 1st Aerobatic Team brought the show to a close with a performance featuring J-10C fighter jets. Pilots executed a series of high-risk maneuvers, including six-aircraft formation splits and barrel rolls, demonstrating the precision and skill that have earned them the title of China's "Blue Sky Honor Guard." The synchronized movements and seamless transitions between stunts drew prolonged applause and cheers from the audience.

Beyond the aerial displays, the airshow also showcased groundbreaking technological innovations in the aviation industry. The Unmanned Intelligent Equipment Hall featured a range of cutting-edge drone technologies, including AI-powered autonomous systems developed by Shanghai Maritime University that can detect fires and monitor safety compliance in ports with minimal latency. Visitors also had the opportunity to experience brain-controlled drone systems, which use 8-channel EEG signals and deep learning algorithms to enable precise control of multiple drones simultaneously.

Bionic flapping-wing drones, modeled after birds and insects, were another highlight of the technology exhibits. Developed by the Beijing University of Science and Technology, these drones can perform reconnaissance missions in challenging environments, with one model successfully completing a five-drone coordinated reconnaissance mission at an altitude of 4,200 meters. The static display area also featured a converted J-6 drone, demonstrating how decommissioned fighter jets can be repurposed for modern military applications.

Jilin-based enterprises also made their mark at the exhibition. Jilin Chemical Fiber Group showcased a range of carbon fiber products, including drone components and complete unmanned aerial vehicles, highlighting the versatility and strength of this advanced material in aerospace applications.

As the sun set, casting a golden glow over the aircraft, many spectators lingered, reluctant to leave. "In the past, we suffered from foreign aggression due to our backwardness," said Mr. Wang from Heilongjiang. "Today, watching these aerial displays filled me with pride and admiration. It reminds us to remember our history and inspires us to work towards the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation."

The 2025 Changchun Airshow not only demonstrated China's growing air power and technological prowess but also planted seeds of patriotism and interest in national defense in the hearts of attendees. As the curtains closed on this year's event, it left no doubt that China's aerospace industry is poised to reach even greater heights in the pursuit of its dreams of dominating the skies and securing the future.