Japan Launches its first Passenger Airplane

Japan’s first passenger airplane kicked off its maiden flight last month, sending across a message to the aviation world about Japan’s determination to position itself as an emerging major player in the industry. The first commercial flight of Mitsubishi Regional Jet (MRJ) took off from Nagoya Airport in central Japan. The flight duration for the reportedly smooth flight was 90 minutes.

The Mitsubishi built jet, that comes in two versions, 78 and 82 seats, consumes 20% less fuel compared to other air crafts in its category due to its aerodynamic design. The plane is brought in competition with Brazilian plane maker Embraer SA and Canada’s Bombardier, which lead the market for passenger jets with fewer than 100 seats.

More test flights are scheduled to be conducted and the delivery of the jet will not be made before mid 2017. The airliner that has placed order of 15 Mitsubishi Regional Jet is Japan’s largest carrier All Nippon Airways (ANA).

MITSUBISHI LAUNCHES ITS FIRST PASSENGER AIRPLANE – MADE IN JAPAN

Overview of World’s top passenger airplane manufacturers

When it comes to passenger airplane manufacturers, every one has heard of Airbus and Boeing. But these two companies mainly manufacturer the wide-body and narrow-body jet airliners. Mitsubishi’s entry into the market means that it is in direct competition with regional Passenger Airplane manufacturers, Bombardier and Embraer.

There are five major manufacturers of civil transport aircraft these include:

• Airbus
• Boeing
• Bombardier
• Embraer
• Tupoloev

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