Aircraft
China Approves Amphibious Aircraft for Firefighting
AVIC's new AG600 Kunlong amphibious aircraft will also be used for emergency missions, including maritime search and rescue flights.
AVIC's AG600 Kunlong amphibious aircraft conducts water drop during firefighting trials.
AVIC's AG600 Kunlong amphibious aircraft has been approved for firefighting. (Photo: AVIC)

China’s multirole AG600 Kunlong amphibious aircraft has received early approval for its firefighting capabilities, paving the way for type certification in 2024. Aviation Industry Corporation of China (Avic) announced the approval from the Civil Aviation Administration of China this week as it continues with the development of an aircraft that will also be used for various emergency response missions, including maritime search and rescue.

The latest test flights focused on a series of water-drop operations involving loads of three, six, and 12 tonnes (up to 26,400 pounds) of water while verifying the AG600's performance and firefighting capabilities. Trials were carried out at altitudes ranging from 75 feet to 328 feet, with speeds reaching between 137 mph to 176 mph, according to the OEM.

Loading…