Dongying city — located in East China's Shandong province — has successfully blended low-altitude aviation with tourism, and a tourist carnival and a light aircraft race took place at the Yellow River Delta Aviation Camp on Sept 19-21 .

The aircraft line up in order in front of the hangar. [Photo/Dongying Daily]

Pilots from 10 regional clubs took to the skies, flying over restored wetlands and the striking blue-and-yellow confluence of the Yellow River.

Spectators lined the camp, capturing every takeoff, maneuver and landing, while live stream sessions drew the attention of aviation enthusiasts nationwide.

Pilots and navigators tackled challenging courses, identifying landmarks from tidal flats to distinctive trees, with exact landings critical for scoring.

"Flying here tests both skill and composure," said Zhang Feihu, general manager of the Dongying Galaxy Aviation Club. After two days of competition, the Galaxy Wings team from Rizhao city in Shandong claimed the championship, demonstrating teamwork and expert navigation.

Since opening in March, the camp has hosted over 1,500 flights and 2,100 participants — offering flight training, drone testing and low-altitude tourism across 3,000 square kilometers of airspace. Organizers plan to establish an annual flying festival, expanding public participation and raising the profile of low-altitude aviation.

With its unique landscapes, vibrant aviation community and growing low-altitude tourism sector, the Yellow River Estuary is emerging as a hub where natural wonders and aviation adventures meet.

Competitors prepare before the race. [Photo/Dongying Daily]

Competitors take off in their aircraft. [Photo/Dongying Daily]

Pilots fly back to the airport. [Photo/Dongying Daily]

After the competition, the participants go on stage to receive their awards. [Photo/Dongying Daily]