China's first homegrown forward-designed autogyro completes maiden flight

China's first independently developed forward-designed autogyro successfully completed its maiden flight in east China's Shandong Province on Tuesday, marking a major step in closing the country's gap in lightweight autogyro technology and achieving breakthroughs in core technological development and standardized airworthiness systems.

An autogyro, positioned between a helicopter and a fixed-wing aircraft, features a large rotor on top similar to that of a helicopter. Unlike helicopters, the rotor is not engine-driven but generates lift by spinning freely as airflow passes through it during flight.

Forward design refers to fully autonomous development, from performance requirements, aerodynamic layout and structural integrity to flight control systems, optimizing the entire system. It represents an original design that fully masters core technology rather than simply imitating external designs.

Previously, China's domestic models of this type largely relied on foreign imports or licensed designs.

The autogyro, coded Zephyr AZ620, is a two-seat light sport aircraft. It took to the skies at Qixia General Aviation Airport in Yantai City. The flight lasted more than 38 minutes, during which the aircraft demonstrated stable posture, precise control and reliable operation of its engine, rotor, avionics and flight control systems. All performance metrics met both design and airworthiness expectations.

Autogyros are known for their safety. Even in the case of engine failure in midair, the rotor continues to spin, allowing the aircraft to glide safely to the ground. They also offer ultra-short takeoff and landing capabilities, as well as strong stability at low altitude and low speeds.

With the low-altitude economy officially recognized as a strategic emerging industry in China, innovative applications of various aircraft are rapidly expanding.

Leveraging unique aerodynamics, exceptional safety and flexible takeoff and landing capabilities, autogyros are transitioning from niche recreational devices to practical tools for logistics, agriculture and emergency response.