China's homegrown large transport aircraft, the Y-20, has officially joined the People's Liberation Army Air Force. The plane has a maximum takeoff weight of around 200 tonnes. This makes it ideal for transporting cargo and people over long distances in diverse weather conditions.

File photo shows the Y-20, China's homegrown large transport aircraft. Y-20 officially joined the People's Liberation Army Air Force on Wednesday. [Xinhua]

Central Military Commission's vice chairman Xu Qiliang congratulated those who contributed to the research and production of the aircraft, as well as the air force personnel. His comments came during a ceremony to hand over the freighter plane. Xu also called for enhanced efforts to build capacity and boost innovative development.

The Y-20 completed its maiden flight in 2013 and debuted at the 10th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition in 2014.

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