During the May day holiday, the first World Air Master competition was held in southwest China's Chongqing municipality. Pilots and air fans gathered for dazzling aerobatic performances.

Spin, roll and dive.

Colored smoke trails emphasize the flight path, drawing gasps from onlookers.

After three days of competing, South African Nigel Hopkins won the World Air Master title with a stunning performance.

Aerobatics is known for its thrills.

It's a popular activity in more than 100 countries.

Jiang Qionghui, Zhuhai Airshow said "Aerobatics is a beautiful combination of technology and arts. Events like this are seen as flight carnivals in foreign countries."

Despite their skills, most aerobatic performers are actually amateurs.

But that's not the case in China. The country's only aerobatic team is affiliated to the PLA Air Force.

Some argue that China is not economically strong enough to afford civil aerobatics. Organizers of the World Air Master disagree.

Guo Rude, World Air Master said "Over 60 thousand attended the event. Ticket fees have covered almost all the cost. Nearby hotels and restaurants have also benefited a lot."

China is now considering designating low-altitude airspace for general aviation, and possibly private jets.

Guo says this will help promote aerobatics in the country.