The AG600 Kunlong amphibious aircraft has successfully completed its production test flights, marking a significant advancement towards customer delivery and bolstering China's emergency response capabilities. This development was confirmed by the Aviation Industry Corp of China (AVIC) through its official WeChat account.

On Sunday, the second batch-produced AG600-1102 took off from Zhuhai Jinwan Airport, located in Guangdong Province, and accomplished a series of essential test tasks. These included ground taxiing, general system inspections, mission system evaluations, and high-altitude flight performance tests.

After its successful takeoff, the aircraft landed safely at 7:18 am, with all systems checked to be functioning well. The flight crew reported stable control and overall stability in the aircraft's performance. Subsequently, at 9:29 am, the plane departed Zhuhai again, headed for Yichang in Hubei Province, for further painting processes.

According to the Xinhua News Agency, the AG600 is distinguished as China's first large civil special-purpose aircraft designed in compliance with civil aviation airworthiness regulations. This model is intended to play a vital role in the national emergency rescue and natural disaster prevention systems.

The AG600's rapid progress this year is noteworthy, particularly since it received its type certificate from the Civil Aviation Administration of China in April. This approval signifies a successful milestone in its development and allows it to enter the market.

Following its final assembly on July 31, the AG600-1102 was rolled off the production line, subsequently transitioning into flight tests in preparation for its maiden flight. AVIC has articulated its commitment to accelerate mass production and delivery, aspiring for a prompt operational deployment of the aircraft.

The AG600 project began in 2009 and has since achieved various milestones, including its maiden flight in 2017, a successful takeoff from a reservoir in 2018, and its inaugural sea flight in 2020. As highlighted by Xinhua, the aircraft has also been equipped to perform fire-fighting operations by 2023.

Overall, the AG600 Kunlong is positioned to significantly enhance China's capabilities in emergency response and disaster management, showcasing the nation's advancements in aviation technology.