China developing new airlifter, page 1

China is currently in the concept stage of development for a new airlifter, that could be flying in the 2020s. Full scale development is expected in two years, the designation is expected to be the Y-30. The gross weight is expected to be similar to the C-130, at 176,000 lbs, but with a 60,000 lb cargo capacity. The cargo bay will be wider than the C-130 however. It's not clear if it will be a turboprop or a jet, either of which is doable. The Chinese have the WJ-16 turboprop, a 5,000 hp engine, as well as the WS-20 jet engine under development. If a jet, it's expected to be a twin engine aircraft.

China also has plans for what's expected to be the Y-19, which would be between the Y-20 and Y-30 weight wise. With that being three aircraft under development, it's expected that the Y-19 and Y-30 may end up competing for funds.

A Chinese airlifter revealed by Avic this week will go into service in the 2020s if the factory behind the project, Shaanxi Aircraft, is given a go-ahead.

The program is at the stage of concept design, say Chinese industry officials. It should be launched into full-scale development in about two years, they add. If it is, and if development is smooth, a first flight could take place in 2020.

The air force does want such an aircraft, the officials say, expecting the type to become China’s main airlifter. The Global Times identifies the aircraft as the previously reported Y-30.

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