As the Chinese aviation industry continues expanding into a variety of piston and turbine aircraft markets, many by acquisition, that country’s state-owned Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC) made it clear recently that it doesn’t plan to overlook seaplanes. AVIC recently updated progress on the AG600, believed to be the world’s largest seaplane that successfully completed a one-hour maiden flight last December. Powered by four turboprop engines, the AG600, nicknamed the Water Dragon, is about the same size as a Boeing 737, 121 feet long with a 127-foot wingspan.
Huge Chinese Seaplane Could Begin Deliveries by 2022
Key Takeaways:
- China's state-owned AVIC is advancing the AG600 "Water Dragon," believed to be the world's largest seaplane, which successfully completed its maiden flight last December.
- The four-turboprop AG600, about the size of a Boeing 737, is primarily designed for search and rescue and aerial firefighting, capable of scooping 12 tons of water in 20 seconds.
- Deliveries are anticipated by 2022, with China having ordered 17 AG600s for domestic use and expected to order 50 additional aircraft.
- Despite its capabilities, some Chinese naval experts are reportedly skeptical about the aircraft's practical utility due to potential operational limitations.
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