China’s First Unmanned Helicopter Certified by Aviation Authority
China has certified its first unmanned helicopter, the TD550D, by the Civil Aviation Administration. This certification establishes a reference standard for unmanned helicopter systems and underlines the aircraft’s safety through extensive testing. Designed for versatile applications including emergency response, the TD550D is set to contribute to the rapidly growing drone industry in China, which has seen significant increases in both companies and economic output.
China has achieved a significant milestone with the certification of its first unmanned helicopter system, the TD550D coaxial model, by the Civil Aviation Administration of China. This groundbreaking certification fills a major void in the country’s airworthiness certification pathway for unmanned helicopters and serves as a reference standard for future certifications, as stated by Tian Gangyin, CEO of United Aircraft, the drone’s developer.
The airworthiness certification process for the TD550D commenced in late 2023, involving thorough testing across multiple aspects such as the rotor system, power system, avionics, and flight control. With a total of 29 compliance verification tests and over 2,600 preliminary test flights conducted, the helicopter is now considered both safe and reliable.
The TD550D is distinguished by its high payload capacity, extended endurance, and superior performance at high altitudes, making it particularly suitable for operating in challenging environments like plateaus and islands. It has a maximum takeoff weight of 640 kg at sea level and 550 kg at 5,000 meters, with a maximum payload of 200 kg at sea level and 120 kg at high altitude, showcasing its operational versatility.
Intended for vital applications such as emergency response, firefighting, and smart logistics, the helicopter is equipped with advanced capabilities, including emergency return, automatic landing, and forced landing features, enhancing its reliability in critical scenarios.
The announcement of this certification coincides with the rapid expansion of the drone industry in China. As reported by Yang Jincai, chairman of the Shenzhen Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Industry Association, the number of drone operating companies has exceeded 20,000 nationwide, achieving an annual output value of approximately 210 billion yuan (US$29.26 billion), which marks a 39.5-percent increase from the previous year. Shenzhen, a central hub for this sector, hosts nearly 2,000 drone companies and is projected to contribute 107 billion yuan to output value in 2024, with a growth rate of 12 percent.
The certification of the TD550D unmanned helicopter marks a pivotal moment in China’s aviation industry, filling important gaps in airworthiness standards. The extensive safety testing underscores the commitment to quality and reliability in unmanned flight technologies. As the drone industry continues to expand rapidly, driven by innovation and market demand, the TD550D will undoubtedly play a crucial role in various critical applications, reflecting China’s advancements in this field.
Original Source: www.shine.cn
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