Over 11,000 Drones Light Up the Sky to Celebrate City’s Milestone
On June 17, the city of Chongqing, China, marked its 28th anniversary as a centrally governed municipality with a record-breaking aerial display featuring 11,787 drones.
The stunning performance set a new Guinness World Record for the largest aerial image ever created by drones.
A Night of Lights and Innovation
The event, held in the Nan’an district along the Yangtze River, attracted a crowd of roughly 100,000 onlookers, including international dignitaries from Japan and Italy. The illuminated spectacle celebrated Chongqing’s urban growth and cultural richness through intricately choreographed drone formations.
The show was split into seven themed chapters, showcasing visuals such as blooming flowers, city skylines, and famous local landmarks. Segments like “Mountain City” and “Vibrant City” paid tribute to Chongqing’s unique geography and vibrant lifestyle.
Engineering Feat Amid Challenging Terrain
Known for its steep, layered cityscape often described as “8D,” Chongqing posed complex challenges for drone synchronization. Engineers coordinated drone paths across multiple base stations, overcoming altitude differences and potential signal disruptions. Shenzhen DAMODA Intelligent Control Technology Co., Ltd. led the technical efforts, conducting extensive rehearsals to ensure precision and visual clarity.
To achieve the world record, drones flew in tightly controlled dual formations, pushing the boundaries of drone performance both in scale and accuracy.
Part of Ongoing ‘Charming Chongqing’ Series
The record-setting event was part of the city’s “Charming Chongqing” weekly drone show initiative, which began on April 19, 2025. Held every week along the Yangtze and Jialing rivers, the 15-minute performances feature rotating themes that highlight Chongqing’s culture, history, and modern achievements.
Foreign officials commended the city’s efforts in boosting international visibility. Japanese representatives noted a rise in tourist arrivals, attributing it partly to China’s relaxed visa policies and Chongqing’s cinematic appeal. Italian delegates echoed this sentiment, suggesting the light show series could help grow the city’s tourism and low-altitude aviation economy.
Official Recognition by Guinness World Records
Guinness World Records formally awarded Chongqing the title of “Largest Aerial Image Formed by Multirotors/Drones” on June 18. The accomplishment solidifies the city’s reputation as both a tech innovator and a pioneer in using urban space for large-scale creative displays.
As the record-setting show concluded, Chongqing sent a clear message to the world: it is a city where tradition meets technology, and where innovation illuminates its future.
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@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
@taoinchongqing It’s really shocking 🫢 to witness the new Guinness World Record for drone show in Chongqing #chongqing #droneshow #重庆 #cyberpunk
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