China's twin-engine civil helicopter AC332 completes plateau flight tests

(ECNS) -- AC332, China’s self-developed twin-engine civil helicopter, has completed all plateau testing at Ninglang Luguhu Airport in southwest China’s Yunnan Province, according to the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC).

Thirty-eight tests were conducted during the latest flights, totaling 27 hours and 38 minutes. The tests covered hovering, takeoff and landing, low-altitude flight and overspeed control, among others.

It aims to verify the AC332 helicopter's performance and safety in high-altitude environments and ensure it can efficiently carry out a range of tasks, including personnel and cargo transport, search and rescue, and medical aid, meeting the transportation needs of high-altitude airports.

In August 2024, the 4-metric-ton multipurpose helicopter completed high-temperature test flights, demonstrating its reliability in extreme heat.

Assembled and manufactured by the AVIC Tianjin Helicopter Co., Ltd., the helicopter made its maiden full-state flight in April 2023.

With a maximum takeoff weight of 3,850 kilograms, it can carry up to 10 passengers, take off at an altitude of 4,500 meters, and reach a ceiling of 6,000 meters.