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Why does the Chinese Z20 helicopter resemble the US-built Blackhawk?

we will carry out research on the cause of the Harbin Z20 aircraft, which resembles a Blackhawk helicopter. We’ll look into some important details

China is known for the bulk of technological items, and the majority of the globe uses Chinese products directly and indirectly. However, it was difficult for the Chinese to achieve success in the aircraft sector. However, they have passed through some difficult times in creating their own aircraft.

China, on the other hand, has created Fifth Generation fighter aircraft. China has learned to now produce a large number of airplanes. Most of us are surprised as to why the Chinese helicopter Z20 looks so much like the American Black Hawk chopper.

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In this article, we will carry out research on the cause of the Harbin Z20 aircraft, which resembles a Blackhawk helicopter. We’ll look into some important details concerning it.

Earlier in the 1980s, China desired some helicopters that could be used for high-altitude medium utility helicopters that could operate in China’s mountain regions. It acquired the US-built Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter in 1984. These 24 Sikorsky S-70C-2 helicopters are civilian versions of the military UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters, but they have already been deployed with the People’s Liberation Army.

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It is unclear why China converted a civilian helicopter into an army helicopter. One of the key reasons the US has been dissatisfied with the move is that China has been unable to purchase more Sikorsky aircraft as a result of the fallout from the 1989 Tiananmen Square riots, which resulted in an EU and US arms embargo. This resulted in the creation of an indigenous “10-tonne helicopter project” in 2006, and the Z-20 made its first flight on December 23, 2013.

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China has recognized the importance of helicopters in terms of defense and humanitarian aid in the country’s emergency circumstances. In the industry, the began to build his own helicopter.

It could serve as a multi-role naval helicopter for the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN), being small enough to be compatible with all PLAN boats while also incorporating a full suite of anti-submarine warfare (ASW) capabilities.

China’s Z20 is based on the basic design of the Blackhawk, however, the most recent update of the Blackhawk is far more advanced than the 1980 model chopper. The helicopter has fly-by-wire controls and a five-bladed main rotor, whereas the Black Hawk has four.

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The tail-to-fuselage joint frame is more angular than that of the Black Hawk, allowing for the additional lift, cabin capacity, and durability. Satellite communications or the BeiDou satellite navigation system are expected to be housed in the fairings behind the engine exhausts and on the spine.

  • The Z20 can carry 12-15 personnel, whilst the Blackhawk can carry 11 troops. Both helicopters have the same length of 65 feet, and their maximum takeoff weight is roughly 10,000 kg.
  • The Z20 has a top speed of 360 km/h, whereas the Blackhawk has a top speed of 294 km/h.
  • The Z20 has a ferry range of up to 560 kilometers, while the Blackhawk has a range of 2,221 kilometers.
  • The Black Hawk and Z20 have the ability to carry many weapons in the weapons bay, and the Z20 also has the same weapon categories.

Aerospace

EASA Ends Suspension on PIA, Approves Flights to Europe

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The suspension of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) from operating in Europe is finally over, marking a significant turning point for Pakistan’s aviation sector.

After years of scrutiny and stringent safety assessments, the European Commission and the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) have officially lifted the ban on PIA. This decision also grants Airblue authorization to operate flights to Europe, further enhancing Pakistan’s connectivity with the region.

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PIA’s suspension, initially imposed in June 2020, was a direct consequence of concerns regarding the oversight capabilities of Pakistan’s Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA). These concerns were triggered shortly after a tragic PIA plane crash that claimed 97 lives, prompting an investigation into the validity of pilot licenses issued in the country.

Now, after four years of continuous efforts and reforms by the PCAA, EASA has expressed renewed confidence in Pakistan’s aviation regulatory framework. In a statement, EASA highlighted that Pakistan has successfully addressed safety compliance issues, enabling PIA to resume its operations within the European Union.

A spokesperson for PIA expressed optimism, emphasizing the airline’s commitment to strictly adhere to EASA’s regulations and guidelines. “This milestone has been achieved after four years of relentless efforts by the PIA management,” the spokesperson said.

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The lifting of the ban is expected to have a profound impact on PIA’s future. The airline, which employs over 7,000 people, has faced criticism in the past for poor management, financial instability, and regulatory challenges.

However, the restoration of European operations is seen as a vital step toward regaining its competitive edge, improving its financial standing, and restoring its reputation on the global stage.

Pakistan’s government, which has been exploring options to privatize the debt-laden national carrier, is hopeful that this development will attract foreign investment and bolster the country’s aviation industry.

With a renewed focus on compliance and safety, PIA is now poised to rebuild its presence in Europe, offering Pakistani travelers and international passengers more connectivity and improved service.

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