от Георги Николов » 18 Апр 2008 11:45
March 28, 2008 No.1230
MHI Officially Launches Mitsubishi Regional Jet Program
-- Mitsubishi Aircraft Corp. to Conduct MRJ Business Operations --
Tokyo, March 28, 2008 – Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (MHI) officially launched the Mitsubishi Regional Jet (MRJ), a next-generation regional jetliner, on March 28. Beginning April 1, Mitsubishi Aircraft Corporation (tentative name), a new company established by MHI to conduct MRJ business, will accelerate the MRJ's development and further strengthen sales activities to potential customers worldwide. As Japan's first company to manufacture and market original passenger jetliners, MitsubishiAircraftwill fulfill a long-cherished wish of the Japanese aircraft materials for its wings and vertical fins on significant scale. In combination with new engines and an advanced aerodynamic design, the aircraft is being planned to reduce fuel consumption substantially and to contribute greatly to enhanced competitiveness and lower operating costs for the airline companies.
Since deciding on authorization to offer (ATO) the MRJ in October 2007, MHI has been conducting full-scale marketing activities worldwide. Based on positive responses from potential customers, including an order for 25 aircraft (15 firm, 10 optional) from All Nippon Airways Co., Ltd., MHI has now decided to formally launch the MRJ program, targeting the aircraft's entry into service in 2013. MHI, by getting the country's domestic passenger jet business, which is seen to have high growth potential, off the ground with sales expansion of the MRJ overseas – a feat enabled by its having secured cooperation from entities including trading houses and Nippon Export and Investment Insurance (NEXI) – aims to contribute to this ongoing development of Japan's industries.
Among the major partners in the MRJ program, Pratt & Whitney will supply its most advanced, highly efficient Geared Turbofan™ (GTF) engines. Other major companies participating are: Parker Aerospace, to supply the aircraft's hydraulic system; Hamilton Sundstrand Corporation, furnishing various systems, including electrical power, air management and auxiliary power units; Rockwell Collins, providing the flight control computers and avionics; Nabtesco Corporation, to furnish the flight control actuators; and Sumitomo Precision Products Co., Ltd., supplying the landing gear.
Going forward MHI will continue to devote its utmost effort to the promotion of its MRJ business and penetration of the aircraft into the global market.
Outline of the new company for MRJ business
Company name:Mitsubishi Aircraft Corporation (tentative name)
Major activities:Development and design of commercial aircraft, acquisition of type certification (T/C), procurement, sales, customer support, etc.
Capital (common stock and capital reserve):3 billion yen
President:Nobuo Toda (currently Director & Senior Vice President at Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd.)
Main office:Oye-cho, Minato-ku, Nagoya, Japan
Number of employees:Approximately 200