The AG600 Kunlong, recognized as the world's largest amphibious aircraft, has successfully passed a crucial minimum unstick speed test in Pucheng county, Shaanxi province, on October 26, 2024. This test is essential for determining the safe take-off and landing speeds of the aircraft, as announced by Avic [ac6fd0b8]. The completion of this test marks a significant milestone in the AG600's development, paving the way for further safety flight tests and airworthiness certification [ac6fd0b8].
Designed for a variety of critical operations, including maritime patrols, search and rescue missions, and forest fire fighting, the AG600 can carry up to 12 tonnes of water in just 20 seconds and is capable of operating in waves up to 2 meters high. It has the capacity to rescue up to 50 people at a time, highlighting its potential impact on emergency response efforts [ac6fd0b8].
The AG600's development began in 2014, with its maiden flight occurring in 2017 and subsequent sea trials in 2020. It is part of China's broader initiative to enhance its aviation capabilities, which also includes the Y-20 and C919 aircraft [ac6fd0b8]. The AG600 is expected to enter service by the end of 2024, further solidifying China's position in the global aviation market [ac6fd0b8].
In the context of China's aviation industry, the AG600's advancements come alongside the C919 passenger jet, which has recently made headlines for its commercial flights and student engagement initiatives. The C919 has secured over 1,300 orders since its first flight in May 2023, showcasing a growing acceptance in the market [e6d94bd2]. As both aircraft progress through their respective testing and certification phases, they represent significant strides in China's ambitions to compete with established manufacturers like Boeing and Airbus [83f43440].