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Japan’s first passenger jet makes maiden test flight 

Japan's first passenger jet makes maiden test flight 

Nagoya, November 11, 2015 –
Mitsubishi Aircraft Corporation and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (MHI) today conducted the first flight of the first flight test aircraft for the MRJ (Mitsubishi Regional Jet), their next-generation regional jet.

The MRJ took off from Nagoya Airport and confirmed its basic characteristics and functionality in ascent, descent and turning in airspace off the Pacific coast during its 1.5-hour first flight.

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“The MRJ successfully took to the sky today thanks to ongoing cooperation and support from all members involved,” said Hiromichi Morimoto, President, Mitsubishi Aircraft Corporation. “We will make our utmost efforts towards type certificate acquisition, committing all our resources to develop and produce the finest regional jet aircraft to enter commercial service in 2017.”

“Operational performance of the MRJ was far better than expected. We had a significantly comfortable flight,” said Pilot Yasumura, who served as captain.

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Mitsubishi Aircraft and MHI will continue to conduct flight tests for the first delivery scheduled for the second quarter of 2017. The flight tests in the US are scheduled to start in the second quarter of 2016, from the MRJ base at Grant County International Airport at Moses Lake in Washington State.

Going forward, Mitsubishi Aircraft and MHI continue to devote their collective resources towards the successful completion of the MRJ project.The unit of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, which built the World War Two-era Zero fighter, is hoping the $47-million regional jet will help it oust Canada’s Bombardier Inc as the world’s second-biggest maker of smaller passenger jets behind Brazil’s Embraer SA.

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The MRJ is Japan’s first commercial passenger aircraft since the 64-seat YS-11 entered service 50 years ago. The first MRJ is slated for delivery in June 2017 to Japan’s biggest carrier, ANA Holdings. Mitsubishi aims eventually to sell more than 2,000 aircraft in the competitive market segment. Mitsubishi says the MRJ burns a fifth less fuel than aircraft of similar size, thanks to new-generation engines from Pratt & Whitney, a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp.

Japan’s last attempt to establish itself as a commercial aircraft maker ended in failure. Production of the YS-11, built by a consortium that included Mitsubishi Heavy, finished after only 182 planes were built.

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That program however helped Mitsubishi Heavy and other companies forge ties with Boeing Co, turning them into major suppliers and partners of the U.S. aircraft maker and helping revive an aerospace industry that was dismantled after World War Two.

Features : 

Clean Sheet Innovation born from freedom , A clean sheet can be liberating. No preexisting platforms to conform to. No parts bins to raid. The results are the most efficient, comfortable and reliable 70- and 90-seat jets to ever take flight.

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Clean sheet advantages

  • Highest fuel efficiency
  • Lowest environmental impact
  • Most passenger comfort
  • Designed to increase reliability

Engine

MRJ is proud to be the launch customer for Pratt & Whitney’s PurePower® Geared Turbofan™ engine which was optimized specifically for the MRJ. The new gear system allows the fan, low pressure compressor and turbine to rotate at optimum speeds which enables engine to have game-changing fuel efficiency. In addition, its Geared Turbofan™ engine architecture requires 60% fewer turbine airfoils than conventional turbofan engines and reduces maintenance time and cost.

Newest Flight Deck

A new view on the horizon . The most advanced, full fly-by-wire, flight deck available today is right at home aboard the MRJ. Featuring the Pro Line Fusion® system, the latest in avionics technology from Rockwell Collins, the MRJ’s flight deck maximizes situational awareness with four 15-inch landscape LCDs that deliver unprecedented clarity and information.

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Cabin 

The modern and stylish cabin of the MRJ introduces new values in the interior comfort of regional jet aircraft. Passengers will be very comfortable as the MRJ will provide wide cabin space, comfortable slim seats, large overhead bins, and lavatory for passengers with reduced mobility.

  • Mainline jet comfort
  • Ample head & foot clearance at the seat
  • Large overhead bin
  • Lavatory for passengers with reduced mobility

MRJ90 versions

MRJ90 Variants MRJ90STD MRJ90ER MRJ90LR
Passengers 88 (Typical single

class at 31″ pitch)Cargo Compartmentm3 (ft3)18.2 (644)Engine
Pratt & Whitney

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PurePower®

PW1217G EngineEngine ThrustkN (lbf)78.2 (17,600) x 2Maximum Takeoff Weightkg (lb)39,600 (87,303)40,995 (90,378)42,800 (94,358)Maximum Landing Weightkg (lb)38,000 (83,776)38,000 (83,776)38,000 (83,776)Maximum Zero Fuel Weightkg (lb)36,150 (79,697)36,150 (79,697)36,150 (79,697)Range @ 88PAX x 102kg (225lb)km (nm)2,120 (1,150)2,870 (1,550)3,770 (2,040)Maximum Operating Mach Number
M 0.78M 0.78M 0.78Maximum Operating Altitudem (ft)11,900 (39,000)11,900 (39,000)11,900 (39,000)Takeoff Field Length (MTOW, SL, ISA)m (ft)1,490 (4,890)1,600 (5,250)1,740 (5,710)Landing Field Length (MLW, Dry)m (ft)1,480 (4,860)1,480 (4,860)1,480 (4,860)

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So far it has secured 223 firm orders, most recently in January when Japan Airlines asked for 32 planes. The biggest single purchase, for 100 aircraft, was from U.S. regional airline operator Trans State Holdings. Those Japanese companies build 35 percent of Boeing’s advanced 787 carbon-composite jetliner, including the wings, the most complex part. Japan’s biggest carmaker, Toyota Motor Corp, and largest trading company, Mitsubishi Corp, each own a 10 percent stake in the MRJ venture.

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He is an aviation journalist and the founder of Jetline Marvel. Dawal gained a comprehensive understanding of the commercial aviation industry.  He has worked in a range of roles for more than 9 years in the aviation and aerospace industry. He has written more than 1700 articles in the aerospace industry. When he was 19 years old, he received a national award for his general innovations and holds the patent. He completed two postgraduate degrees simultaneously, one in Aerospace and the other in Management. Additionally, he authored nearly six textbooks on aviation and aerospace tailored for students in various educational institutions. jetlinem4(at)gmail.com

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Aviation

Boeing says 787 Dreamliner aircraft is safe

Boeing says 787 Dreamliner aircraft is safe

Boeing is standing firm on the safety and durability of its 787 Dreamliner aircraft despite mounting criticism and whistleblower allegations.

In response to concerns raised by whistleblowers and ahead of a congressional hearing, the aviation giant emphasized its rigorous testing protocols and asserted confidence in the integrity of its planes.

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During a media briefing accompanied by a PowerPoint presentation, boeing aircraft
reiterated its confidence in the safety of both the 787 and 777 aircraft models. Senior engineers showcased extensive testing procedures aimed at refuting claims that approximately 1,400 Boeing planes may be afflicted by significant safety issues. The company addressed specific allegations, including concerns about gaps in manufacturing processes that could lead to premature fatigue failure over time.

The upcoming Senate hearing is expected to feature testimony from Boeing engineer Sam Salehpour, who has publicly criticized boeing airplanes safety practices and alleged retaliation for speaking out. Salehpour’s claims, currently under investigation by the FAA, include allegations of workers resorting to extreme measures during assembly, such as “jumping on pieces of the airplane” to align them.

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Boeing officials stressed that thorough inspections of nearly 700 in-service Dreamliner jets revealed zero airframe fatigue findings, even after six and twelve years of heavy maintenance inspections. These results have been shared with the FAA, according to Boeing’s chief engineer, Steve Chisholm. He emphasized that the materials used in the construction of the 787 were specifically chosen for their resistance to fatigue and corrosion.

In response to Salehpour’s accusations of shortcuts in assembly processes, boeing planes
acknowledged instances where shims were not of the proper size and where areas did not meet skin-flatness specifications. However, the company dismissed claims of excessive force during assembly, stating that such practices were not part of their standard procedures.

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Aviation

How to Utilize American AAdvantage Miles for Etihad Flights

How to Utilize American AAdvantage Miles for Etihad Flights

Are you eager to make the most of your American AAdvantage miles by exploring exotic destinations served by Etihad Airways? Look no further! This guide will walk you through the process of redeeming your AAdvantage miles for Etihad flights, ensuring you unlock the full potential of your rewards.

Etihad Airways’ partnership with American Airlines opens up a world of possibilities, allowing travelers to access a wider range of destinations and flight choices. jetnet american airlines What’s more, passengers can earn AAdvantage miles for their Etihad flights, enhancing the value of their travel experiences.

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To start earning Etihad Guest miles, one convenient option is through credit card rewards. While Etihad doesn’t offer a U.S.-based cobranded credit card, you can seamlessly transfer rewards from renowned programs like American Express Membership Rewards, Capital One, and Citi ThankYou Rewards at a 1:1 ratio.

Once you’ve accumulated your miles, it’s time to embark on your Etihad journey. But how do you ensure your flights are credited to your American AAdvantage account? concierge key american airlines Fear not, for the process is simple. After your Etihad flights, wait at least three days before requesting to add them to your AAdvantage account. Utilize the provided form, entering your AAdvantage number and the 13-digit ticket number. Additional information may be required, readily available on your boarding pass stub or ticket receipt.

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Etihad Airways boasts an extensive network, particularly in North America, with flights to major cities including Boston, Chicago, New York, Toronto, and Washington. Whether your wanderlust leads you to the Maldives, India, Sri Lanka, or South Africa, Etihad can serve as your gateway to these captivating destinations.

Now, let’s talk redemption. If you’re eyeing the dream of using your AAdvantage miles for etihad airport, rest assured, the process aligns with the standard AAdvantage partner award chart. To provide clarity, consider these examples of one-way business aa pricing:

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  • From the United States to the Middle East and India for 70,000 miles
  • Venture from the United States to Africa for 75,000 miles

For those seeking the epitome of luxury in first class

  • Luxuriate in a flight from Abu Dhabi to London for 62,500 miles
  • Indulge in a journey from Abu Dhabi to New York for 115,000 miles

With these redemption options, your AAdvantage miles can transform into unforgettable travel experiences aboard Etihad Airways.

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Aviation

Is Russia’s dream of competing with Airbus and Boeing turning into a nightmare? Russian MC21 delay

Putin says Russia plans to build 1,000 passenger planes

The much-anticipated Russian competitor to Airbus A320neo and Boeing 737 MAX, the Yakovlev MC-21, is encountering yet another setback as its first deliveries are pushed back to 2025 or 2026.

Rostec CEO Sergei Chemezov disclosed the extended timeline, underscoring the ongoing challenges plaguing Russia’s aerospace industry.

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Originally slated for delivery to the state-owned Aeroflot group in 2022, the MC-21’s schedule has been repeatedly pushed back, with 2024 being the subsequent target. However, amidst the aftermath of Russia’s involvement in Ukraine and ensuing international sanctions, the project has faced significant hurdles.

The conflict in Ukraine has triggered sanctions from the United States, European Union, and other Western nations, severely impeding Russia’s aerospace sector. Access to vital components and technology has been curtailed, impinging upon the MC-21’s development and production. The situation necessitated a shift away from reliance on foreign elements, with a focus on domestic alternatives to mitigate the impact of sanctions.

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Initially hailed for its groundbreaking design featuring an innovative composite wing and reliance on foreign components like the Pratt & Whitney PW1400G engines, the MC-21 project has to adapt swiftly in the face of mounting challenges. The recent wave of sanctions has intensified the isolation of Russia’s aerospace sector, underscoring the pressing need for self-reliance in aircraft production.

Looking ahead, Rostec envisions a more optimistic trajectory, expressing its intent to ramp up production to 72 aircraft annually by the year 2029. Yet, achieving such aspirations hinges upon overcoming the multifaceted hurdles posed by ongoing sanctions and geopolitical tensions.

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