This file photo taken in October 2022 shows a TD550 coaxial unmanned helicopter in a trial flight on the plateau in Hetian, Northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. Xinhua 

Shenzhen-based United Aircraft's TD550D coaxial uncrewed helicopter has secured type certification from China's aviation watchdog, marking the birth of the country's first airworthiness-certified unmanned helicopter system.

The certification, granted by the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC), sets a benchmark for future unmanned helicopter certifications, according to Tian Gangyin, CEO of United Aircraft.

The system's airworthiness certification process began in late 2023. To ensure the aircraft's safety and reliability, the company conducted testing and verification across multiple areas, including the rotor system, power system, avionics, and flight control. The process involved 29 compliance verification tests and more than 2,600 preliminary test flights.

According to the company, the TD550D boasts high payload capacity, long endurance, and strong high-altitude performance, making it well-suited for complex environments such as plateaus and islands.

The helicopter has a maximum takeoff weight of 640 kg at sea level and 550 kg at an altitude of 5,000 meters. Its maximum payload capacity reaches 200 kg at sea level and 120 kg at 5,000 meters, demonstrating its versatility in high-altitude operations.

The aircraft, designed for applications in emergency rescue, firefighting, and smart logistics, features functions such as emergency return, automatic landing, and forced landing capabilities in critical situations.

United Aircraft's TD550D coaxial uncrewed helicopter secures China's first type certification.  uatair.com 

China’s drones have taken the lead in pioneering airworthiness pathways on a global scale, offering valuable insights and examples for the development of the low-altitude economies.

The certification came as China’s drone industry enters a phase of rapid growth. According to Yang Jincai, chairman of the Shenzhen Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Industry Association, the number of drone-operating companies nationwide has exceeded 20,000. The industry’s annual output value has reached approximately 210 billion yuan (US$29.26 billion), marking a 39.5% increase from the previous year.

As a major hub for the industry, Shenzhen is home to nearly 2,000 drone companies, contributing 107 billion yuan in output value for 2024, with a 12% growth rate.