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The world's first four-seat hydrogen-powered aircraft successfully completed its maiden flight in Shenyang, Northeast China’s Liaoning Province on Monday, the Guangming Daily reported.

The aircraft marks the first domestically developed hydrogen-powered general aviation aircraft and represents a significant milestone in China's pursuit of green aviation.

Test pilot’s feedback showed that the flight exhibited sufficient power, minimal vibration, and excellent maneuverability.

The flight engine power which reached 120 kW can take off and land at most general aviation airports, meeting the requirements for daily operations.

To prevent possible explosions caused by hydrogen gas leaks, the Liaoning General Aviation Academy has installed ventilation channels in the corresponding areas to circulate air inside the hydrogen storage compartment, effectively removing any leaking hydrogen gas.

In terms of comfort, the team has developed a specialized absorber for hydrogen-powered engines ,which reduces vibrations to 40 percent of those experienced in aircraft of similar power levels, greatly improving the comfort for pilots.

The aircraft is scheduled to participate in the 2024 AERO exhibition in Germany this April, where it will conduct ground demonstrations featuring propeller operation.

Hydrogen is widely recognized as a clean energy source and is highly valued internationally. The carbon emissions from hydrogen aircraft are close to zero.

The advancement and operation of hydrogen-powered aircraft is expected to drive the overall growth of the hydrogen aviation industrial chain, fostering new productive forces in the green aviation sector in China. 

China in last October unveiled plans to boost the green aviation sector to enhance the competitiveness of China’s aviation manufacturing and achieve the sustainable development of the industry.

By 2025, electric aircrafts are expected to be commercially deployed, while the key technologies for hydrogen-powered aircraft will have completed feasibility verification, according to the plan.

By 2035, new-energy aircraft will become the mainstream in development. Unmanned, electric, and intelligent aircraft will achieve commercialization and large-scale application.