ATR aiming for validation in China by the autumn

ATR is pushing through with its plan to allow its aircraft to be operated in China. The France-based aircraft manufacturer revealed details of the certification process for the ATR 42-500 with modification 5948, also known as the ATR 42-600, in China.

A three-hour certification test flight took-off and landed in Toulouse occurred this month. The aircraft was flown by a company ATR crew but was supported by Chinese and European airworthiness authorities.

This flight was regarded as a vital step in order to begin ATR aircraft deliveries to Chinese customers. Validation is expected to be completed by autumn this year.

In a statement from ATR, it said: “China is determined to boost its regional connectivity with suitable aircraft, which represent only 2.5% of the overall fleet in China, compared to a worldwide average of 25%.”