China’s large amphibious aircraft, the AG600, has officially entered the flight certification test phase, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s aviation industry. The Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC) announced on Tuesday that the Airworthiness Certification Center of the Aviation Administration of China has issued the Type Inspection Authorization (TIA) for the first model of the AG600 aircraft family.
The issuance of the TIA signifies that the AG600’s configuration and expected airworthiness meet the stringent requirements set by the aviation authorities. This development lays a solid foundation for the aircraft to complete the airworthiness certification process.
Prior to receiving the TIA, four AG600 aircraft designated for test flights were engaged in rigorous airworthiness compliance flight tests. These tests are crucial steps toward ensuring the aircraft’s safety and reliability in various operational conditions.
The AG600 amphibious aircraft is a cornerstone in China’s efforts to bolster its emergency rescue capabilities. Developed independently by China, it is tailored to perform a range of critical missions including forest firefighting, maritime search and rescue, and other emergency operations. The aircraft features a unique design that combines an integrated aircraft-shaped upper body with a ship-shaped lower body, enhancing its versatility in both aerial and aquatic environments.
AVIC highlighted that the AG600 series is developed with a focus on amphibious capabilities and versatility across multiple models. This adaptability allows the aircraft to be equipped for diverse roles such as marine environment monitoring, resource detection, and passenger and cargo transportation, meeting the varied needs of different users.
The AG600 prototype has already achieved several milestones, including its maiden flight in 2017, its first takeoff from a reservoir in 2018, and its inaugural flight over the sea in 2020. These achievements demonstrate the aircraft’s robust performance and readiness for the next stages of certification and deployment.
The development of the AG600 aircraft family is of great significance in elevating the capabilities of China’s domestically produced civil aeronautical products. It also represents a leap forward in advancing the nation’s emergency rescue aeronautical equipment systems, contributing to greater safety and preparedness in emergency situations.
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China's AG600 amphibious aircraft begins certification flight tests
cgtn.com
