Tourists in Lhasa, capital of southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region, will be able to enjoy helicopter tours from August this year.

Dawa Puncog, chairman of the Potala Tourism and Culture Group in Lhasa, said the first two helicopters will be delivered in June.

The maiden flight will be in August, he said. People will be able tour the city and its neighboring regions, including Namtso Lake, aboard six helicopters in the initial period.

The company has sent 28 Tibetan pilots and crew to receive eight months of flight training in Nanjing, Suzhou and Yunnan.

A general aviation airport, which covers an area of 4 hectares and can accommodate 30 helicopters, is expected to be operational in late July.

Dawa Puncog said the company is planning to offer aerial tours in the whole region. It will also offer emergency medical and rescue services, he said.

The company also has ordered a further 20 helicopters for pilot training and leasing.