AVIC has finished construction of large fuselage parts for its MA700 turboprop programme, paving the way for static testing.
With this, the Chinese airframer says the programme moves into its the next stage of development, the main component delivery stage, before the aircraft will be assembled by year’s end.
AVIC
This comes as AVIC separately says that the wing parts of the static test aircraft designated 10001 have been matched, and assembly of the wings have commenced.
It adds that the static test programme design for the MA700 has been completed, and has gotten regulatory approval.
To date, AVIC says it has 285 orders from 11 operators, for the MA700. The aircraft, to be powered by Pratt and Whitney turboprops, is suitable for “short distance feeder transportation” of about 800km, AVIC adds. The aircraft has a range of up to 2,700km.
AVIC has previously said it hopes to get Chinese certification for the 86-seater by 2021, with entry into service by 2022. It also added that it did not rule out western certification for the programme.
Source: Cirium Dashboard
