8-Sep-2011 Source: HeliHub.com
Recent test flights of China’s heavy-lift AC313 helicopters have pushed the altitude envelope to 8,000m (26,247 feet). This will enable it to fulfil mission on mountainous plateaus according to manufacturer Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC). The new altitude record was achieved on a September 2nd test flight from Gonghe Airport in northwest China’s Qinghai Province
The helicopter, with a gross take-off Weight of 13.8 tons, can be used for transportation, forest fire prevention, emergency search and rescue missions, disaster relief and medical aid. The AC313 completed its maiden flight in March 2010.
C E Ishu – HeliHub.com Tokyo correspondent