Overview

• Photos published in August 2025 indicate that AVIC’s first tiltrotor prototype has flown, moving the program from concept modeling into practical flight testing.
• The aircraft features fixed engines with tilting rotors and a driveshaft-equipped straight wing that could allow both rotors to be powered by a single engine in case of failure to enhance safety.
• Visible external elements include retractable landing gear and a high T-tail configuration consistent with advanced tiltrotor designs.
• Key technical specifications such as payload capacity, range and speed have not been disclosed, leaving its performance and operational timeline uncertain.
• Analysts say a Chinese tiltrotor could expand PLA options for long-range assault, rapid transport and maritime support if the program advances toward production.