Wuhu city propels homegrown aircraft innovation

Wuhu, city of East China's Anhui province, has been prioritizing aerospace and the low-altitude economy in recent years.

Based in the city's Wanzhi district, CETC Wuhu Diamond Aircraft Manufacture Company was established in 2013 through a partnership between the China Electronics Technology Group Corporation (CETC) and the Wuhu municipal government.

The company moved swiftly from signing foreign technical licenses in late 2013 to delivering its first aircraft in 2017.

This three-year period saw it fully absorb foreign know-how and establish its stringent production standards.

A major milestone came in 2021 when it independently developed the CA42 aircraft with twin engines and four seats, which received the Type Certificate (TC) from the Civil Aviation Administration of China.

This certification marked a triumph for domestic aviation. The CA42 aircraft is its first aircraft featuring a fully indigenous avionics system, engine, and other critical components. This achievement has overcome previous restrictions imposed by a foreign technological barrier.

Tian Manlin, general manager of the company, emphasized the long-term dedication required in this field.“Low-altitude manufacturing is a lifelong endeavor. It demands patience and a long-term perspective,” Tian noted.

He added that as an industry leader, it has a responsibility to drive innovation that benefits not only itself but also empowers others across the supply chain.

The company's journey aligns with Wanzhi district's strategic focus on building a modern industrial system and stands as a prime example of China's growing capabilities in advanced aviation manufacturing and technological self-reliance.

Pan Shaokang contributed to this story.