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The Chinese indigenous AC352 mid-size helicopter passes the certification test

The first domestic medium-sized helicopter type for civil usage in China was certified on Tuesday by the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC).
Things to know about china's Newly built AC352 helicopter.

The first domestic medium-sized helicopter type for civil usage in China was certified on Tuesday by the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC).

According to the Aviation Industry Corporation of China, the most recent action signified the successful conclusion of Z15 development and opened the door for the helicopter’s debut into the market (AVIC).

Z15, also known as AC352, was created by AVIC Harbin Aircraft Industry Group Co., Ltd. as part of an AVIC and Airbus Helicopters collaboration effort. It has a maximum takeoff weight of 7.5 tonnes, a maximum range of 850 kilometres, and can accommodate up to 16 passengers.

It is the nation’s first civil helicopter that was created, examined, and approved in accordance with the Airworthiness Regulation of Transport Category Rotocraft, which was recently changed.

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AVIC and Airbus Helicopters jointly developed the twin-engine, multi-purpose AC352 civil helicopter. With a maximum take-off weight of 7.5 tonnes, it has a capacity of up to 16 passengers.

According to the AVIC, the new helicopter model strengthens the 7-tonne class civil helicopter family’s heritage and is crucial to China’s efforts to develop its helicopter industry.

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On December 20, 2016, the AC352 successfully concluded its initial flight. At the end of 2019, it started the flight-test process for airworthiness certification.

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The performance of the AC352 was fully validated during prior flight tests around the nation in sub-plateau regions, high and low temperatures, and other challenging conditions, according to the AVIC.

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Why Embraer’s E175-E2 Faces Challenges in the U.S. Market

Why Embraer’s E175-E2 Faces Challenges in the U.S. Market

Embraer, a renowned Brazilian aircraft manufacturer, has a strong reputation for building regional jets that connect smaller cities worldwide.

While its aircraft are widely used in various countries, the United States imposes restrictions on certain Embraer models, particularly the E175-E2. In this article, we’ll explore why this aircraft is blocked from entering the U.S. market.

The Embraer E175 vs. E175-E2

  • The E175 is allowed in the U.S. and is a popular choice for regional airlines operating short-haul routes.
  • The E175-E2, a more advanced and fuel-efficient version, faces restrictions due to scope clauses.

1. Scope Clause Restrictions

Scope clauses are agreements between major U.S. airlines and pilot unions that limit the size and weight of aircraft used by regional carriers.

  • These clauses cap the maximum takeoff weight (MTOW) at 86,000 pounds.
  • The E175-E2 exceeds this limit with an MTOW of 98,120 pounds (44,600 kg), making it ineligible for regional operations.

2. Fleet Compatibility

U.S. regional carriers typically operate under agreements that favor aircraft compliant with scope clauses.

3. Market Dynamics

Modifying scope clauses would require complex negotiations between airlines and pilot unions, a process that can be time-consuming and contentious.

  • Major airlines have shown little interest in pushing for these changes, especially with other compliant aircraft available.
  • The lack of demand has led Embraer to suspend the development of the E175-E2 in February 2022.

Similar Challenges Faced by Competitors

Embraer isn’t the only manufacturer affected by scope clauses.

  • Mitsubishi’s SpaceJet program was similarly halted in 2023 due to the same restrictions.
  • Larger regional aircraft like the E190-E2 (MTOW: 124,340 lbs) are also excluded from regional contracts, further limiting options.
  • In the U.S., airline and pilot union agreements restrict regional carriers to aircraft with a maximum of 76 seats or a maximum takeoff weight (MTOW) of 86,000 pounds (39,000 kg).
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  • The Embraer E175-E2, however, exceeds these limits, offering seating for up to 90 passengers in a single-class layout and an MTOW of 98,120 pounds (44,600 kg).
  • Due to these restrictions, Embraer suspended the E175-E2 program in February 2022, citing scope clause limitations as the primary reason for pausing development.

The Decline of Small Regional Jets

The U.S. market is shifting away from smaller, 50-seat regional jets.

  • In 2019, there were 660 active 50-seat regional jets.
  • By November 2024, this number had dropped to 260, creating a gap in the regional aviation market that remains unfilled.

Impact on U.S. Aviation

The inability to introduce newer, more efficient regional jets like the E175-E2 is impacting both airlines and manufacturers:

  • U.S. airlines must adjust flight routes and seating configurations to accommodate older aircraft models.
  • Boeing, a domestic competitor, also faces challenges as demand shifts towards larger aircraft, reducing regional jet sales.

Conclusion

While the E175-E2 is permitted and operational in many countries, it remains blocked in the U.S. due to regulatory limitations. This situation highlights the pressures faced by domestic manufacturers and airlines as they struggle to balance efficiency, regulations, and market demands.

What do you think about these restrictions? Should the U.S. update its scope clauses to allow more advanced regional aircraft? Share your thoughts in the comments!

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