Beijing: China’s independently developed AG600 large amphibious aircraft has successfully completed all compliance flight tests for ground takeoff and landing in crosswind conditions, according to the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC).
According to Oman News Agency, the successful crosswind flight tests play a critical role in enhancing the AG600’s adaptability to complex environments, broadening its operational and application scenarios. AVIC noted that two AG600 aircraft recently underwent these tests in Xilinhot, northern China, and the results met all necessary requirements, fully verifying the aircraft’s safety and reliability in strong crosswind conditions.
The aircraft’s air intake system also passed its compliance flight test, with several other ground tests conducted in Xilinhot, as reported by China’s News Agency (Xinhua). Following the completion of these tests, one AG600 aircraft embarked on a ferry flight to an airport in Jiagedaqi, located in northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province. It will be stationed there to serve a forest protection scientific research mission, as stated by its developer.
The AG600 stands as the world’s largest civil amphibious aircraft in terms of takeoff weight, with a maximum capacity of 60 tonnes. It is notably capable of carrying 12 tonnes of water for firefighting missions. The aircraft has also obtained its type certificate from the Civil Aviation Administration of China, marking its successful development and providing market entry approval.