Aircraft certified for civilian use in China

China’s AG600 amphibious firefighting aircraft has received its type certificate from the Civil Aviation Administration of China, confirming its readiness for commercial use, according to CCTV News.

The aircraft, developed by the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC), is the largest civilian amphibious aircraft currently in production and is capable of carrying 12 tons of water.

CCTV News reported that the aircraft will now progress toward production, with AVIC aiming to obtain its Production Certificate by the end of August and begin deliveries in October.

Aircraft design and capabilities

The AG600, also known as “Kunlong,” was designed for multi-role use, including firefighting, maritime supply and emergency rescue.

According to CCTV News, the aircraft has a maximum takeoff weight of 60 tons, a cruising speed of 220 kilometres per hour and a range of 4,500 kilometres.

Cheng Zhihang, general director of AVIC’s South China General Office, said that the aircraft includes a boat-like hull, wingtip floaters, and wave-suppressing grooves for stable movement on water.

Technical development and testing

CCTV News reported that the AG600 underwent extensive testing to ensure it could operate effectively in both air and water, with more than 10,000 tests conducted in wind tunnels and hydrodynamic laboratories.

Huang Lingcai, chief designer of the AG600 series, said: “The development of this aircraft has been very difficult, and it has been a tough nut to crack.

“The testing has shown that it can meet the performance requirements for amphibious operations.

“It has achieved a major breakthrough in China’s civil aviation sector.”

The development process involved over 290 organisations and 16 universities across 22 Chinese provinces and cities, according to Xinhua.

Role in China’s aviation strategy

The AG600 was developed in line with international airworthiness standards for specialised operational platforms, according to the Global Times.

Wang Yanan, chief editor of Aerospace Knowledge magazine, said: “While existing amphibious aircraft models in the global market are mostly outdated products developed decades ago, China’s AG600 stands out as the most advanced contemporary solution.

“It was developed after extensive analysis of market demand, making it more relevant to current operational needs.

“Meeting strict airworthiness standards, the aircraft has strong commercial potential for forest monitoring and emergency rescue.”

Wang added: “The AG600 meets domestic demand while boosting China’s global aviation competitiveness.

“Its deployment will support the growth of the low-altitude economy and open new market opportunities.”

Amphibious firefighting aircraft receives market certification: Summary

China’s AG600 amphibious firefighting aircraft has received type certification from the Civil Aviation Administration of China.

The aircraft was developed by the Aviation Industry Corporation of China.

It can carry up to 12 tons of water, with a takeoff weight of 60 tons.

It has a cruising speed of 220 kilometres per hour and a range of 4,500 kilometres.

CCTV News reported that the aircraft will enter production, with deliveries scheduled to begin in October.

The aircraft includes a boat-like hull and systems designed for dual air and water operation.

AVIC stated that more than 10,000 tests were conducted during the development phase.

Chief designer Huang Lingcai said the project presented complex technical challenges.

The aircraft was developed in collaboration with 292 enterprises and 16 universities.

It was built to meet international airworthiness standards for specialised aviation.

Wang Yanan of Aerospace Knowledge magazine said the aircraft reflects current market needs.

Wang stated that the aircraft will serve in rescue, monitoring and supply missions.

The AG600 is part of China’s broader strategy to expand its aviation capabilities.

Xinhua reported that AVIC plans to obtain its Production Certificate by August.