A Leonardo AW609 tiltrotor performs a test flight. [Courtesy: Leonardo Helicopters]
Key Takeaways:
China is reportedly testing a new, previously unknown crewed tiltrotor aircraft, evidenced by recent photos circulating online.
This marks China's first observed crewed tiltrotor, with potential manufacturers including Hafei Aviation or the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC).
The aircraft is anticipated to have both commercial and military applications, filling a current gap in the Chinese military's capabilities.
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.
CREATE A FREE ACCOUNT
Sign up to keep reading
Create a free account to continue. Already a member? Sign in below.
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.
