Aviation Industry Corp of China, the nation's leading aircraft manufacturer, has commenced delivery of its Y-9E aircraft to its first foreign customer, the State-owned conglomerate announced.

The deal, finalized in early 2023, marks the Y-9E's first overseas sale. While AVIC did not disclose the buyer's identity or the number of planes ordered, it confirmed that the delivery process had begun.

Wu Jiancheng, an executive at AVIC subsidiary Shaanxi Aircraft Corp, which is responsible for producing the Y-9E, highlighted the aircraft's appeal during a recent open-house event. He emphasized its robust carrying capacity and competitive pricing, making it an attractive option for international clients.

The Y-9E is the export version of the Y-9 tactical transportation plane. According to Wu, it is designed for carrying out missions such as transporting soldiers and equipment, as well as facilitating airdrops and parachuting operations.

"It features a long flight range, a spacious interior and a convenient loading and unloading mechanism," Wu said. "The aircraft can operate in diverse environments, including tropical, icy and high-altitude regions."

According to specifications released by SAC, the Y-9E is approximately 36 meters long with a wingspan of 38 meters. It has a top speed of 660 kilometers per hour, a cruising altitude of 7 to 8 kilometers, and a maximum operational range of 5,200 km. With a maximum takeoff weight of 65 metric tons, the aircraft can transport up to 20 tons of personnel and cargo.

Founded in 1969, SAC is one of China's key manufacturers of large aircraft, specializing in midsize transport planes and their modified variants, including early-warning and electronic warfare models.

Its products are extensively used by the People's Liberation Army and have been sold to foreign countries.

One of SAC's newer offerings, the Y-8Q anti-submarine aircraft, was showcased at the 15th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition in Zhuhai, Guangdong province, in November. Designed to detect, track and attack submarines, the Y-8Q has played a vital role in the PLA Navy's air patrol missions over the South China Sea, according to the company.