AirInsight
Coming to an airshow, you want to see new ideas. Generally this is rare, although you do get to see some wonderful concepts. Aviation is an industry of creativity.
But when you see an idea that looks creative and you’re not sure if its feasible, an outside endorsement works. That is what happened today in an event attended by only thee media people.
A year ago this what the Maeve concept looked like.
This is where it is now. The change is remarkable. A supercritical wing, powered by a 14,000pound thrust Pratt & Whitney Open Rotor, a cabin with five abreast. Range, depending on configuration, is up to 1,400 miles. The wider cabin also mean better over seat storage and baggage storage. In cabin bag storage is the weak link with every regional jet.
Engine thrust is the same as the CF34 on the CRJ900. The engine hybrid in that at takeoff it has an electric boost. Upon landing the battery would be recharged in case of a “go around.” The engine has apparently been in development for a long time, though this is the first time we have seen it or heard of it.
The Japan Airlines role is important. The airlines has several regional aircraft in its fleet, and the Maeve could replace all of them. Read the announcement here. The airline’s role is to part of the collaboration in Maeve’s development. We understand to expect more airlines to engage this way.
The MaeveJet is shorter than the CRJ900, and has a wider wing. Projections are for significant fuel burn improvements. Crucially, the aircraft will fall within Scope Clause. MHIrj understands Scope as well as anyone.
What we have here is, potentially, the first new regional jet in a long time that is Scope compliant. Interestingly, the first airline engaged is not based in the US. The influence of MHIrj in the way the aircraft developed over the past year is clear. That is an advantage.
Take a listen to the Q&A from the presentation.
Views: 0
