AC352

Description

The AC352 [AC352] is a multi-purpose medium twin-engine helicopter developed through an industrial partnership between the Aviation Industry Corporation of China [中国航空工业集团有限公司] and Airbus Helicopters. It is the specific Chinese-manufactured variant of the shared H175 platform, resulting from a 2005 agreement to co-develop a 7.5-tonne rotorcraft. While the airframe is common to both models, the AC352 is distinguished by its primary assembly in Harbin and the integration of WZ-16 [涡轴-16] engines, rather than the Western powerplants used on the international H175. The aircraft is marketed primarily to Chinese government agencies and domestic commercial operators for missions including offshore oil and gas transport, search and rescue, and emergency medical services. Major early adopters include the Ministry of Transport [交通运输部] for maritime salvage operations and various regional public security departments. Unlike the H175, which is sold globally by Airbus, the AC352 is positioned to meet internal Chinese requirements and reduce reliance on imported propulsion technology. Prospective buyers should note that while the airframe has extensive flight hours via the H175 fleet, the WZ-16 engine integration represents a distinct certification path. The Aerospace Garage desk would verify current production rates at Harbin Aircraft Industry Group [哈尔滨飞机工业集团] and the specific status of heavy maintenance support networks within mainland China. We would also confirm the extent of parts commonality with European-produced H175 units to assess long-term logistical resilience.