ISTANBUL

China’s domestically developed AG600 amphibious aircraft has passed all compliance flight tests for ground takeoff and landing under crosswind conditions, the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC) announced.

"The AG600 is the world's largest civil amphibious aircraft in terms of takeoff weight -- a maximum of 60 tonnes. Notably, it is capable of carrying 12 tonnes of water for firefighting missions," according to China’s state news agency Xinhua.

Two AG600 aircraft completed the crosswind compliance tests in Xilinhot, in northern Inner Mongolia, confirming their safety and reliability in adverse wind conditions, AVIC said.

Strong crosswinds are a critical challenge in aviation, increasing the difficulty of takeoff and landing and heightening the risk of equipment malfunction. AVIC emphasized that clearing this stage of testing improves the AG600’s performance in complex environments and expands its potential uses.

The aircraft’s air intake system also passed its compliance flight test, in addition to several ground-based trials conducted at the same test site.

Following the tests, one of the aircraft was transferred to Jiagedaqi in northeast Heilongjiang province, where it will support a scientific research mission on forest protection.

The AG600 has received its type certificate from the Civil Aviation Administration of China, signaling the completion of its development phase and clearing the way for market entry.