China's first batch of five light copters lately rolled off production line in Huzhou, Zhejiang Province, including 1 one manned, 1 two manned, 2 three manned and an automatic fixed-winger, all with a flying height of 3,000 meters (9843 feet). After adjustment they are now waiting for a good weather for trial flights.
Huzhou Taixiang Aviation Technology Co. Ltd, where the copters were produced, is a hi-tech joint venture by Jinjiang Medicine Co. Ltd. and US-based Aitas Enterprise Corporation. It was founded on November 29 last year, with a total investment of US$29.9 million and a registered capital of 20 million dollars.
The company has its aim at a production capability of 150 copters in two years on a manufacture program upon approval by Huzhou Economic and Technological Development Zone. Based on this time's trial production the company strives to produce all component parts by itself except for the engine in three years.
(People's Daily September 4, 2002)
