Mitsubishi Heavy Industries is likely to go ahead with the development of an indigenous regional jet after securing interest from domestic carriers and clearing space for production at its factories.
A decision on the Mitsubishi Regional Jet (MRJ) programme is due by end-March and sources close to the company say it has also stepped up marketing efforts in recent weeks, an indication that a positive outcome is likely.
The Japanese manufacturer formally began offering its 70- to 90-seat aircraft to customers in October with a view to launching the programme early in 2008. The twinjet would be powered by Pratt & Whitney's GTF geared turbofan.
Domestic carrier All Nippon Airways confirmed in January that it is evaluating the aircraft. Larger rival Japan Airlines (JAL) could be a tougher sell as it ordered up to 15 Embraer 170s last year, but the source says that the initial talks with the carrier have been positive.
ANA said last month that the evaluation is at an early stage. "We're looking at it, but it's a blank sheet as yet as we are not at the stage to decide numbers or even whether we will buy it," says the airline.
MHI also said in early February that it is ending the production of components for Bombardier's Q400 and CRJ700/900 regional aircraft. This, the company added, would allow it to focus on its work for the Boeing 787. While the company insists that this move is unrelated to its plans for the MRJ, industry sources point out that the move does allow MHI to focus on its own regional aircraft if needed.
Rockwell Collins has been selected to provide primary flight control computers, pilot controls and the horizontal stabiliser trim system for the MRJ. Collins had previously been selected to provide its Pro Line Fusion avionics, and to serve as the MRJ programme's avionics system integrator. Meanwhile, Hamilton Sundstrand is providing the MRJ electric system (including emergency power) fire detection and suppression system air management system auxiliary power unit and the flap/slat actuation system.
Source: Flight International
