China-built world's largest amphibious plane undergoes final tests
On Monday, the aircraft made a high-speed sailing test on Zhanghe Reservoir, fulfilling the final preparatory step before the first water-based takeoff, according to AVIC.
Development of the AG600 was approved by the central government in June 2009. Construction of the prototype began in March 2014 and was completed in July 2016.
The amphibious plane is one of three large-size aircraft to emerge from the nation's ambitious effort to become a top-tier player in the global aviation sector, joining the Y-20 strategic transport plane－delivery of which began in July 2016 to the Chinese Air Force－and the C919 narrow-body jetliner, which is being flight-tested.
Video: World's largest amphibious plane moves to shore after successful water test [Video by Zhao Lei/chinadaily.com.cn]
