Visitors at the aviation culture event on Nov 11 in Changchun. [Photo/Tian Jiaxin]

An aviation culture event is underway at Changchun International Aviation Expo City in Jilin province until Nov 17, offering visitors a chance to explore aircraft, learn about aviation, and experience pilot and astronaut training activities.

The seven-day event is part of commemorations marking the 77th anniversary of the founding of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Air Force. It also serves as a key warm-up event for the 2027 Changchun Air Show.

More than 10 general aviation aircraft are on display, including the RX1E-A aircraft and an AW119 helicopter, giving visitors a close look at their structures and design.

A helicopter model is displayed. [Photo/Tian Jiaxin]

Retired Air Force pilots, including special-grade pilots, also serve as interactive guides. Drawing on their flight experience, they explain aircraft and aviation technologies and answer visitors' questions.

The event features two hands-on experience zones designed to help visitors understand pilot training and explore aerospace culture.

The pilot training zone follows the process of becoming a pilot, with equipment such as height and weight measuring devices, smell-testing equipment, rotating platforms, electric swivel chairs, pilot shooting trainers, and flight simulators.

Zhang Xueyan, deputy secretary-general of the China Aviation Education Association, said the event offers different interactive activities for visitors of various ages.