China's AC313A large civil helicopter completes first plateau flight tests

BEIJING, Nov. 20 (Xinhua) -- China's independently-developed AC313A large civil helicopter has successfully conducted the first round of plateau flight tests, according to the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC).

The AC313A has successfully conducted a series of flight tests at various plateau airports. The move paves the way for the airworthiness flight tests, said the AVIC, the country's leading aircraft maker.

Its first round of flight tests took place at Anshun Huangguoshu Airport in Guizhou Province, Ninglang Luguhu Airport in Yunnan Province, and Daocheng Yading Airport in Sichuan Province, said the AVIC.

These plateau airports are located at altitudes of around 1,600 meters, 3,300 meters, and 4,400 meters, respectively. Among these, located 4,411 meters above sea level, Daocheng Yading Airport is the highest civil airport in China and the world.

This round of flight tests verified the AC313A helicopter's flight performance and quality on plateaus, as well as the adaptability of its major systems, said the AVIC.