Aircraft
DATE:10/09/07
SOURCE:Flight International
China developing WIGE aircraft
A wing-in-ground-effect aircraft is under development at Shanghai based-Tongji University, according to Chinese media. With a design payload of 4,000kg (8,800lb), top speed of 162kt (300km/h) and maximum altitude of 5m (16ft), the aircraft is claimed to consume half to two-thirds of the fuel of an "ordinary aircraft" while carrying "more weight" and being up to six times faster than an ocean-going ship. The report says further development could lead to a 50-seat prototype by 2013, with future versions able to carry up to 400,000kg by 2017.
Click here to check out the highest rated articles
For exclusive news and expert analysis every week subscribe to Flight International print edition. Included with your subscription are 4 FREE issues and FREE delivery to your home or office.