Fuji Heavy Industries could assist with designing the wings of the Mitsubishi MRJ regional jet, using its experience with the Boeing 787.
"We have been talking with many potential partners, and that includes Fuji Heavy Industries. However, nothing has been confirmed at this stage," says Mitsubishi Aircraft, which is responsible for the MRJ's development.
FHI, which supplies the composite wing box for the 787, confirms its possible involvement but declines to provide details. Japan's Nikkei newspaper reported on 2 September that the company could send engineers to help design the MRJ's wing and wing box, and eventually manufacture components for the aircraft.
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Mitsubishi Aircraft, a joint venture between Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, car manufacturer Toyota Motor, and several Japanese trading houses, is also keen to tap Boeing's expertise in the technical, sales and customer support for the MRJ.
The 70- to 90-seater is scheduled to enter service in 2013 with All Nippon Airways, which ordered 15 of the larger MRJ90 variant, along with 10 options, in March to help launch the programme.
Pratt & Whitney's PW1000G GTF geared turbofan will power the aircraft, Rockwell Collins will provide its Pro Line Fusion avionics system, and Hamilton Sundstrand the electric power systems, air management system, auxiliary power unit, inert gas system, high-lift actuation system and fire and overheat protection system. Parker Aerospace will supply hydraulic systems, Nabtesco the flight-control system and Sumitomo Precision the landing gear.
Source: Flight International
