Regional Jet manufacturers Embraer, Bombardier and Fairchild Aerospace are pressing on with planned larger 70- to 120-seat programmes, despite uncertainty over industry consolidations, mergers and scope clause limitations in the USA.
Embraer plans to start a second phase of subsonic wind tunnel tests on the 70-seat ERJ-170 later this month, having completed the initial series in October. Joint definition of the programme will be completed by February, before the start of the detailed design and certification effort, due for completion in late 2002. The first flight of the ERJ-170 is due in 2001,with first deliveries starting the following year.
The Brazilian manufacturer, which says it is still looking for other investment partners in the $850 million ERJ170/190development, despite the recently announced French industry involvement in the company, expects to gain significant market share with both products.
"We expect to get 35% of the total market of 1,370 aircraft (in the 70-80 seat category) with the 170, and 20% of the 1,420 aircraft in the 81-110 seat market, with the 190," says Orlando Neto, market intelligence director.
Bombardier says it is "working hard with potential engine suppliers" to reach definitive risk-share agreements on the BRJ-X-110 by the end of the year. "We are still working on a manufacturing strategy," says Rodney Williams, aircraft programmes vice president. Bombardier remains bullish on the chances for the BRJ-X-110, despite effectively orphaning the project by recently opting to develop a stretched 90-seat derivative of the Canadair Regional Jet, in place of the planned 90-seat BRJ-X-90 stablemate. "There is more than enough demand in the sector, so if we bring the right product there will be enough demand for the -110 without having to think about other products," says Williams.
Fairchild Aerospace, nearing the midway point of the design phase of the 728JET, has begun designing the 98-passenger 928JET. Component manufacturing is due to begin in the first quarter of next year, with the first flight expected in three years. The 928JET is to enter service in the fourth quarter of 2003, with the smaller 55-seat 528JET due in service in 2004.
Source: Flight International
