A Leonardo AW609 tiltrotor performs a test flight. [Courtesy: Leonardo Helicopters]
Key Takeaways:
A new crewed tiltrotor aircraft, believed to be China's first, is reportedly undergoing testing in the country.
Photos of the flying tiltrotor are circulating, but its manufacturer and operator remain unconfirmed, though Hafei Aviation or state-owned AVIC are speculated.
This development is significant as China did not previously field a crewed tiltrotor, and the aircraft is expected to have both commercial and military applications.
A new tiltrotor-style aircraft appears to be undergoing testing in China.
Photos circulating on social media show a white, crewed tiltrotor flying in what appears to be a city in China. It was not clear who manufactured the rotorcraft, or who is now operating it.
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Zach Vasile is a writer and editor covering news in all aspects of aviation. He has reported for and contributed to the Manchester Journal Inquirer, the Hartford Business Journal, the Charlotte Observer, and the Washington Examiner, with his area of focus being the intersection of business and government policy.
