Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — China AS700D electric aircraft successfully completed its first flight on Friday (February 21), marking a significant breakthrough in the country’s push for environmentally friendly aviation within the low-altitude economy sector.
The electric aircraft, developed by the state-owned Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC), represents a milestone in verifying the technological maturity and performance of the independently developed AS700D.
The test flight took place Friday morning in Jingmen, Hubei Province, central China. The aircraft executed a vertical takeoff before quickly ascending to an altitude of 50 meters. After hovering briefly, it made a stable vertical landing.
“The electric aircraft feels lighter and smoother like driving a new energy vehicle. It operates quietly, making both piloting and riding a more comfortable experience,” said Lin Hong, the AS700D’s test pilot, as reported by CNN Indonesia.
AS700D Aircraft
The AS700D was developed by the AVIC Special Vehicle Research Institute as a fully electric aircraft. It is an advanced, electrified version of the AS700, a manned aircraft that runs on gasoline.
This next-generation model replaces conventional engines and fuel systems with cutting-edge lithium battery-powered propulsion, an advanced propeller system, thrust vector control, and an optimized cooling mechanism.
“The AS700D’s lithium battery-powered system represents a significant shift, allowing for near-zero emissions and reduced noise levels during flight,” said Zhou Lei, the aircraft’s chief designer.
Zhou noted that the AS700D is particularly suited for operations in areas with strict noise and emission regulations, such as nature reserves and ecologically sensitive regions. It is also ideal for missions involving large public events such as concerts, marathons, and other mass gatherings.
The AS700D has a maximum designed altitude of 3,100 meters and a top speed of 80 kilometers per hour. It can carry up to 10 people, including the pilot, according to its developers.
Aircraft Capability
Designed for versatility, the AS700D electric aircraft is capable of performing a range of tasks, including aerial photography, security monitoring, traffic command, and communication relay operations.
Thanks to its safety and stability, the AS700D is also well-suited for low-altitude tourism, aerial advertising, urban security, emergency rescue missions, and other applications in the emerging low-altitude economy.
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“As environmental awareness continues to grow, the aviation industry must undergo a green transformation. We will push forward with the application of scientific and technological advancements in sustainable aviation by developing the AS700 series and other key projects,” said Zhang Lixian, an official at AVIC’s Special Vehicle Research Institute, as reported by CNN Indonesia.
With the successful debut flight of the AS700D electric aircraft, China is taking a significant step toward the future of sustainable aviation. As the demand for greener transportation solutions grows, innovations like the AS700D could play a crucial role in shaping the low-altitude economy and redefining the possibilities of electric flight.
(Raidi/Agung)
