Flying toward a spectacular future

Helicopter operators are taking off on the back of the growing popularity of 'aerial tourism' in China

Pilot Lei Yanghua earned 200 yuan ($32.2) in tips after taking three tourists on a 15-minute helicopter trip over Guilin's stunning scenery in the Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region.

As they climbed over breathtaking rivers and lakes, and soared above rolling hills, his passengers marveled at the spectacular views.