The Harbin Y-12F, advanced turboprop utility aircraft developed by the Aviation Industries Corporation of China (AVIC), has received a type certificate by U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

The Y-12F is the third aircraft in the Y-12 series to obtain FAA certification, following the Y-12IV and Y-12E.

On December 10, 2015, the Y-12F was awarded type certification by the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC), and was granted the FAA certification on Feb. 22, 2016. It is the first time a Chinese plane got certification from the CAAC and FAA in the same time.

The Y-12F was developed by Harbin Aircraft Industry (Group) Company Ltd (HAIG), a subsidiary of AVIC. Its lifting capacity is about 1,800 kilograms (almost 4,000 pounds), and its maximum speed is about 280 miles per hour.

The Y-12F can accommodate 19 passengers or three LD3 cargo containers. It is designed for various uses in such roles as passenger transport, maritime surveillance, supplies airdrop, aerial telemetry and photography, geological prospecting, and medical aid and rescue.

Compared to its competing aircraft around the world, the Y-12F boasts advantages in payload, travel distance, speed and comprehensive effectiveness.

The Y-12F project was launched in 2005 with the maiden flight completed in 2010.

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