Mitsubishi Aircraft has started full-scale tests on its MRJ regional jet, as it gears towards the programme’s scheduled first flight in the second quarter of the year.
The Japanese airframer performed, for the first time, an engine run on the right engine of its first flight test aircraft (aircraft 10001) on 13 January at Nagoya airport.
“The first engine run verified the total operations of the aircraft’s various systems including hydraulic, fuel, air conditioning, electric systems and power systems such as engines,” says Mitsubishi.
Last month, the manufacturer also performed a wing up-bending test on its static strength test aircraft at Mitsubishi Heavy Industries’ Komaki South plant. The test, at maximum load calculated from simulation of flight conditions, was applied to the wings of the aircraft.
Mitsubishi says the test produced “anticipated results".
MRJ wing up-bending test
Mitsubishi Aircraft
“Mitsubishi Aircraft remains firmly committed to the success of the first flight with an on-track progress of the upcoming tests, such as functional tests and engineering tests,” it adds.
Mitsubishi is using a fleet of seven test aircraft – five for flight tests and two for ground tests - for the MRJ programme.
The MRJ order book stands at 375 aircraft: 191 firm, 160 options and 24 purchase rights. Japan Airlines has also signed a letter of intent for 32 of the regional jets.
Source: Cirium Dashboard
