File photo taken in 1996 shows that Liu Yibing poses for photos with the plane he made. Liu Yibing, 46, was born in a peasant family. At the age of 17, he was inspired to make a super-light plane by himself after reading an aviation magazine. He spent all his spare time on research and self-study for assembling planes after finishing fieldwork. He successfully obtained a license through the national aviation department and made his maiden flight in 1996. Liu participated in dozens of flight competitions and began to engage in business attempts since then. In 2010, Liu established an aero club in Helan County. Now, as a coach of powered hang glider, he wants to share his experience from a farmer to a professional pilot to more people and involve more aviation fans in the promotion of air sports. (Xinhua/Liu Quanlong)
