Aviation Industry Corp of China, the nation's leading aircraft maker, on Friday conducted the maiden flight of its AC332, a new type of multifunctional helicopter designed for civilian use, especially on plateaus.

The test flight took place on Friday afternoon at an airport belonging to AVIC Tianjin Helicopter in the municipality's eastern suburb, with an AC332 prototype flying for about 15 minutes in front of invited guests.

The test verified the helicopter's overall flight capability and its performance in terms of maneuverability and passenger comfort, according to Li Shengwei, the AC332's chief designer.

He said that test flights for airworthiness certification will conclude in 2025, and deliveries will start soon after certificates are issued.

At a ceremony after the flight, AVIC Tianjin Helicopter signed orders for 18 AC332s with five buyers, including Poly Aviation Technologies in Beijing and Heligolden Aviation in Yunnan province. The maker also signed an agreement of purchase intention for six AC332s with an aircraft rental company in Xiamen, Fujian province.

Propelled by two high-power, fuel-efficient engines, the AC332 has a maximum takeoff weight of about 3.9 metric tons and is capable of carrying 12 people - two pilots and 10 passengers.

It has a maximum cruising speed of 260 kilometers per hour and a maximum range of 693 km.

When deployed on a plateau with an altitude of 4,500 meters, it will be able to carry passengers or supplies with a combined weight of 600 kilograms and travel 600 km.

Li said users will find the twin-engine helicopter very useful in a wide range of operations, including emergency rescue, medical assistance, law enforcement and marine logistics support.

"The helicopter will be especially useful when someone on a plateau needs assistance to transport personnel or cargo, conduct search and rescue efforts or provide medical aid in an efficient, rapid manner," Li said.