Aircraft development in China is hitting its stride and many manufacturers are working on new types across the aircraft spectrum.
Here are 5 new Chinese airliners:
Comac ARJ-21
By Peng Chen (Flickr: China ARJ-21) [CC BY-SA 2.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0)], via Wikimedia Commons
AVIC Y-12F
AVIC Y-12F. Photo (c) Allen Zhao
Part of a new generation of advanced turboprop aircraft developed in China. Significantly, this new regional airliner has just received its FAA certification, paving the way for sales in western markets. The Y-12F can be used for passenger transport, cargo, maritime monitoring, medical transportation and relief flights or parachute dropping. Over 200 have been delivered so far in nearly 30 countries.
AVIC Y-12E
AVIC Y-12E
Another turboprop from the AVIC stable. The Y-12E is currently undergoing flight tests ahead of certification and delivery to airlines. It slightly resembles the DHC-6 Twin Otter, and is being targeted at the inter-island market. A purchase contract has already been agreed the transport department of Micronesia.
Xian MA700
The Xian MA700
A new turboprop regional airliner following in the footsteps of the MA60 and MA600. The MA700 will be a 78-seat, twin-engine aircraft and is due to fly later this year, with deliveries starting in 2017. Already two Chinese airlines – Okay Air and Joy air – have signed commitments as launch customers for 60 aircraft, with a number of other carriers placing orders.
Comac C919
The new Comac C919 Chinese airliner
Another Chinese airliner that has been in development for a long time, and the biggest on this list, is the Comac C919 – a passenger jet which will be capable of carrying between 158-174 passengers, putting it in the Airbus and Boeing market. A test machine recently entered static tests in Shanghai to check the aircraft structure and systems over a life-cycle. It is anticipated the first C919 will enter service in 2018.
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