HAI Z-9 Haitun
Harbin Aircraft Industry · China · first flew 1981 · helicopter
A Chinese licence-built development of the Eurocopter AS365 Dauphin, the Z-9 Haitun is a twin-turboshaft light utility helicopter used in both civil and military roles.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | High-mounted, rotary |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 2 × turboshaft, fuselage-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | 13.46 m fuselage |
| T — Tail | Conventional |
WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.
Spot it by:
- Fenestron shrouded tail rotor set in the fin
- Sleek Dauphin-derived streamlined nose and pod
- Retractable tricycle undercarriage
Look for the distinctive fenestron shrouded tail rotor buried in the tall fin, a hallmark of the Dauphin lineage. The streamlined nose, deep cabin pod and slender tail boom complete the profile. Retractable undercarriage distinguishes it from lighter utility types.
Specifications
- The HAI Z-9 Haitun has a length of 13.46 m (44 ft).
- It has a wingspan of 11.93 m (39 ft).
- Its maximum speed is 305 km/h (190 mph).
- Typical crew: 1 or 2.
Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.
History
In 1980 Harbin secured licence rights to the French AS365N Dauphin, with the first Chinese-assembled example flying in early 1981. Progressive localisation produced the fully indigenous Z-9B and a family of armed and naval derivatives. Production continues to underpin much of China's rotorcraft fleet.
Variants
Civil utility versions serve alongside the armed Z-9W and Z-9WA gunship variants carrying anti-tank missiles and rocket pods. Naval Z-9C models operate from frigates in the anti-submarine and search roles. The design also seeded the larger Z-19 scout-attack helicopter.
Where you'll see it
There is no UK service; the Z-9 equips the Chinese army, navy and air force plus export customers in Africa, Asia and Latin America. Operators include Pakistan, Mali, Kenya and Cambodia. Its combination of low cost and proven Dauphin heritage sustains steady export interest.
Related aircraft
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