On April 28, China's first positively designed autogyro successfully completed its maiden flight in Yantai, Shandong Province, marking a significant breakthrough in filling the gap in light autogyro capabilities and achieving milestones in independent core technology research and standardized airworthiness system construction.

An autogyro is an aircraft that falls between a helicopter and a fixed-wing airplane. It features a large rotor on top, similar to that of a helicopter, but the rotor is not directly driven by an engine; instead, it relies on the airflow generated during forward flight to spin and produce lift.

Previously, similar products in China were mostly imported through foreign agents or licensed production. The maiden flight lasted over 38 minutes, with stable aircraft attitude and precise control. Core systems including the engine, rotor, avionics, and flight control operated steadily, with all performance indicators meeting design and airworthiness certification expectations.

Autogyros are known for their outstanding safety; even if the engine fails mid-air, they can rely on autorotation to descend steadily. They also offer advantages such as ultra-short takeoff and landing capabilities and stable low-speed, low-altitude flight. The aircraft that completed the maiden flight is a positively developed two-seat light sport aircraft. "Positive design" refers to the independent development and system optimization of the entire process—from performance requirements, aerodynamic design, structural strength, to flight control systems—resulting in an original design that fully masters core technologies, as opposed to simple appearance imitation.

With the low-altitude economy being officially designated as a national strategic emerging industry, innovative applications of various aircraft are continuously emerging. Thanks to its unique aerodynamic design, exceptional safety, and flexible takeoff and landing capabilities, the autogyro is rapidly transitioning from a "niche toy" for aviation enthusiasts to a "practical tool" serving multiple industries such as logistics, agriculture, and emergency response.

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