China’s AG600 Amphibious Aircraft Completes Certification Flight Test
China’s AG600, the world’s largest amphibious aircraft, has successfully completed its first certification flight test, marking a significant milestone in its development. The test was conducted at a civil aircraft flight test center in Shaanxi Province, located in northwest China. This critical evaluation assessed the aircraft’s airspeed calibration, overall performance, and safety standards, with a specialized crew from the Chinese Civil Aviation Authority overseeing the process.
Developed by the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC), the AG600 is a versatile aircraft designed for both military and civilian applications. It is powered by four Dongan WJ-6 turboprop engines, allowing it to remain airborne for up to 12 hours and carry up to 50 passengers. The AG600’s ability to operate from both land and water makes it a valuable asset for tasks such as maritime search and rescue, firefighting, and environmental monitoring.
One of the most striking features of the AG600 is its size. The aircraft is comparable in scale to narrow-body airliners like the Boeing 737 or Airbus A320, making it the largest amphibious aircraft currently in operation. Its impressive dimensions and capabilities have positioned it as a key player in China’s growing aviation industry.
The AG600’s journey to this certification flight has been marked by several significant achievements. The aircraft first took to the skies on December 24, 2017, showcasing its potential as a groundbreaking addition to the global aviation landscape. This was followed by another successful flight in 2018, when the AG600 took off from the Zhanghe Reservoir, demonstrating its amphibious capabilities.
In June 2024, AVIC took the next step in the AG600’s development by commencing low-rate serial production. This move signaled the transition from testing and development to the production phase, with the goal of delivering the aircraft to various government and commercial clients both within China and internationally.
The AG600’s successful certification flight test brings it closer to full operational deployment. Once certified, the aircraft is expected to play a critical role in China’s efforts to enhance its maritime capabilities. It is particularly well-suited for missions in the South China Sea, where its ability to take off and land on water will be invaluable for conducting search and rescue operations, as well as providing support for remote islands and reefs.
Moreover, the AG600’s firefighting capabilities make it a vital tool for combating forest fires, an increasingly important function as climate change leads to more frequent and severe wildfires worldwide. The aircraft’s ability to scoop large quantities of water and rapidly deploy to affected areas will enhance China’s disaster response efforts.
As the AG600 moves closer to certification and full-scale production, it represents a significant achievement for China’s aviation industry. The successful completion of this certification flight test is a clear indication that the AG600 is on track to become a critical asset in both civilian and military aviation, reinforcing China’s position as a leader in innovative aircraft development.