A brand-new AC332 4-tonne-class advanced twin-engine multi-purpose helicopter developed by Aviation Industry Corporation of China, Ltd (AVIC) completed its full-state maiden flight in North China's Tianjin Municipality on April 7.
Purchase agreements and intention agreements for 24 helicopters were also signed with its first users on the same day.
A view of the brand-new AC332 4-tonne-class advanced twin-engine multi-purpose helicopter developed by Aviation Industry Corporation of China, Ltd (AVIC) [Photo/sasac.gov.cn]
The AC332 helicopter was developed based on the innovative demand-side concept and meets the latest airworthiness requirements issued in China Civil Aviation Regulations-29.
It adopts a single rotor, high-set ducted tail rotor, skid landing gear and clamshell-style rear cabin door and can carry 10 passengers.
With a maximum takeoff weight of 3,850 kilograms, the helicopter can fly as fast as 260 kilometers per hour and as far as 693 kilometers.
A brand-new AC332 4-tonne-class advanced twin-engine multi-purpose helicopter developed by the Aviation Industry Corporation of China, Ltd (AVIC) completes its full-state maiden flight in North China's Tianjin Municipality on April 7. [Photo/sasac.gov.cn]
According to AVIC, the AC332 helicopter completed its detailed design review in 2019 and its spare part assembly and final assembly production line was built and put into use in AVIC's subsidiary in Tianjin in 2021.
The helicopter is expected to obtain the required type certificate in 2025.
The AC332 helicopter will be used in a wide range of fields like medical rescue, public law enforcement and offshore operations. It's worth noting that the newly-debuted prototype is expected to play a key role in high-altitude areas, efficiently carrying out such tasks as personnel and material transportation as well as search and rescue.
(Executive editor: Xie Yunxiao)
