Spectacular Display Over Yangtze River Sets New Global Milestone
On the evening of 17 June, the skyline of Chongqing, China, transformed into a canvas of light as 11,787 drones performed a synchronised aerial show, officially setting a new Guinness World Record for the largest drone-formed aerial image.
The large-scale event, held in Nan’an district along the Yangtze River, drew an estimated 100,000 spectators, including diplomats from countries such as Japan and Italy. The show commemorated 28 years since Chongqing became a municipality under direct central rule.
A Technical and Creative Achievement
Organisers designed the show around seven thematic chapters, using drone formations to illustrate the city’s mountainous terrain, blooming flowers, bustling streets, and cultural icons. Highlights included scenes titled “Mountain City” and “Vibrant City”, crafted to reflect the region’s identity.
Chongqing’s complex landscape — often referred to as an “8D city” for its vertical urban design — posed unique logistical challenges. Engineers had to manage signal transmission across uneven altitudes and coordinate drone movements from multiple base stations. Shenzhen DAMODA Intelligent Control Technology Co., Ltd. and the team spent weeks rehearsing and fine-tuning each formation.
All drones flew in dual formation, pushing not just the limits of numbers, but also the precision required to maintain image clarity in shifting terrain.
Ongoing Light Shows to Attract Global Tourists
The June 17 event was part of the ongoing “Charming Chongqing” drone show series, which has been held weekly since April 19, 2025. These 15-minute shows are staged along the Yangtze and Jialing rivers, each month featuring new creative themes that promote Chongqing’s culture, urban life, and landmarks.
Foreign diplomats praised the city’s growing visibility. Officials from Japan noted an increase in international visitors, crediting China’s visa-free policies and Chongqing’s frequent appearances in film and media. Italian representatives also highlighted the event’s potential to boost the city’s global profile and promote its low-altitude economy.
Record Certified by Guinness World Records
Guinness officials presented the certificate for the new record on June 18, one day after the show. The title awarded was for the “Largest Aerial Image Formed by Multirotors/Drones.” The achievement positions Chongqing as a leader not only in drone technology but also in creative urban branding.
As the lights faded over the riverbanks, the city closed the night with a powerful message — one of celebration, innovation, and rising global recognition.
Watch the videos here:
@taoinchongqing It’s really shocking 🫢 to witness the new Guinness World Record for drone show in Chongqing #chongqing #droneshow #重庆 #cyberpunk
@ctvnews A drone light show featuring 11,787 drones set a new Guinness World Record for the largest aerial image formed by drones, in Chongqing, southwest China. #drone #world #record
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