China builds world's largest amphibious aircraft

China has begun building the world's largest amphibious aircraft, a media report said.

The assembly of the domestically developed AG-600 seaplane started in Zhuhai city on July 17, the People's Daily reported on Tuesday.

"The AG-600's overall specifications, such as the maximum takeoff weight and flight range, are better than other amphibious planes in the world. Some countries with many islands, such as Malaysia and New Zealand, have expressed interest in the AG-600," Qu Jingwen, general manager of China Aviation Industry General Aircraft Co, the aircraft's developer, was quoted as saying.

The aircraft can carry 50 people during a maritime search and rescue mission.