North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has recently tested a "homegrown" light aircraft as part of a series of demonstrations that unlike his father and grandfather he has no fear of flying.

State media on April 1 carried footage of Kim in the cockpit flying the plane with the help of a pilot. The official Rodong Sinmun claimed North Korea produces military aircraft as well as light planes -- an unlikely claim but the first time it has been put forward.

"The North started producing military helicopters on its own some 10 years ago," a source said. "In case of aircraft, the North was merely repairing aircraft and assembling parts, but now the aviation industry seems to have developed to the extent that it can produce light aircraft because Kim has recently taken an interest in aviation."

Kim reportedly ordered officials to produce light aircraft last year.

Kim was apparently keen to dispel the impression given by foreign news reports in January that he only uses American-made planes. In March last year, Kim was seen in an American-made Cessna 172 Skyhawk.

"It's difficult to tell if Kim can really pilot an airplane or was only posing for a photo opportunity while the real pilot in the copilot's seat did all the work," the source said.