GKN Aerospace Congratulates Mitsubishi on First MRJ Test Flight

GKN Aerospace has congratulated Mitsubishi Aircraft Corporation on the successful completion of the first test flight of its next-generation regional jet.

The MRJ took off from Nagoya airport in Japan and performed basic tests during the 90-minute flight.

GKN Aerospace is responsible for the design and manufacture of the turbine exhaust case (TEC) and intermediate compressor case (IMC) for Pratt & Whitney on the PurePower PW1200G engine. The company also produces the engine’s low pressure turbine (LPT) shaft and fan case mount rings.

In the MRJ passenger cabin, GKN Aerospace is responsible for the windows which are coated with the company’s patented CrystalVue II abrasion-resistant coating. The advanced CrystalVue II coatings can manage the impact of solar heat and prevent electromagnetic interference.

David Brantner, President, GKN Aerospace, said, “We are proud of the part GKN Aerospace is playing on the MRJ programme and congratulate Mitsubishi on their achievement today. We believe the MRJ represents an extremely intelligent combination of technological innovation and established expertise. We look forward to continuing our work with Mitsubishi as we move towards first production deliveries.”

Flight tests in the U.S. are set to begin in Q2 2016. Delivery of the first MRJ aircraft is scheduled for Q2 2017.