China Unveils First Ultra-Light Civilian Helicopter

BEIJING: China Thursday unveiled its first ultra-light civilian chopper at an international helicopter exposition held for the first time in the country. The one-tonne AC310 helicopter, equipped with a fuel-efficient engine and flexible rotor system, can carry two to three passengers and cruise at up to 159 km per hour, said the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC), which developed and manufactured the chopper. The first China Helicopter Exposition, which began Thursday will conclude Sunday in the northern port city of Tianjin, Xinhua reported. The aircraft can be deployed for rescue operations, environmental monitoring and flight training, as well as private use, an official said. It has been aimed at China's expanding private aircraft market, for the middle-class and helicopter lovers, he said. The helicopter is priced at 3.5 million yuan (around $541,100).