China's AC312E helicopter completes plateau tests

World
Europe

China's civil AC312E helicopter, which made its maiden flight in July 2016, successfully completed all plateau test flights on Tuesday, according to the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC).

AC312E helicopter/Chinanews.com Photo

Installed with Arriel 2H helicopter engines, AC312E is a China-developed light twin-engine civilian helicopter. With a maximum take-off weight of 4.25 tonnes, the helicopter’s payload could be up to 1.7 tonnes and can carry nine passengers.

AC312E helicopter/Chinanews.com Photo

"AC312E has shown good reliability and performs well on all types of plateau environments. It can now meet the demand for emergency rescue and earthquake relief helicopters in plateau regions," said Li Shengwei, the helicopter deputy chief designer.

AC312E helicopter/Chinanews.com Photo

Equipped with new avionics, AC312E’s flight control systems are more convenient. It is tasked to be used for emergency medical services, emergency search and rescue, business transport and law enforcement.

AC312E helicopter/Chinanews.com Photo

According to the AVIC, the aircraft could fly up to 6,300 meters. At an altitude of 5,000 meters, AC312E could fly with a payload of 500 kilograms.

In September 2016, AVIC received the first order for AC312E from the Ministry of Land and Resources China Geological Survey. The following year, Tibet Development and Investment Group signed an intention agreement to buy four AC312E helicopters for emergency rescue work in southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region.

Source(s): Xinhua News Agency