Three Chinese aerospace companies are proposing the joint development of a new 70-seat regional jet in what appears to be an independent initiative without central government support.
Manufacturing plants Xian, Harbin and Shaanxi say that they plan to set up such a joint venture and are seeking additional risk-sharing partners. A feasibility study is under way with the aim of a programme launch early next year, ready for service entry in mid-2004.
Industry observers are puzzled at the timing of the programme, which does not appear to have the support of the Chinese state aerospace arm, Aviation Industries of China, or the central Government. It comes as China is undertaking a wholesale reorganisation of its aerospace industry and a close review of spending.
As now outlined, the plan is to build a four-abreast aircraft similar to Bombardier's 70-seat Canadair Regional Jet (CRJ) Series 700, with a low wing, T-tail and aft-mounted engines. The weights and dimensions of the proposed Chinese aircraft are also similar to those of the Bombardier regional jet.
Questions remain as to how the project would be funded and marketed, although the three plants involved hint at state support.
Engine candidates would include the General Electric CF34-8, Snecma/Pratt & Whitney Canada SPW14 and possibly a derivative of the BMW Rolls-Royce BR700. GE confirms that it "has spoken" with the Chinese consortium and provided specifications. BMW R-R sources say that they are aware of the project, but remain cautious.
Source: Flight International
