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Chinese twin-turboprop airliners find niche markets worldwide

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Chinese twin-turboprop airliners find niche markets worldwide
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The Xi'an MA60 and MA600 are two twin-turboprop airliners produced by the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC), a state-owned aerospace and defense conglomerate. These aircraft have carved out a niche in regional and emerging markets, offering cost-effective alternatives to Western and Russian turboprops.

AVIC, founded in 1951 and headquartered in Beijing, plays a significant role in China's aviation industry. The corporation has operations in over 30 countries and encompasses numerous subsidiaries, including Xi'an Aircraft Industrial Corporation, which manufactures the MA60 and MA600.

According to Aviation Week, these aircraft are stretched variations of the Soviet-designed Antonov An-24. This design provides excellent stability for short regional flights and operations from rough or unpaved runways. By building on this framework, Xi’an Aircraft Industrial Corporation created aircraft suited to developing aviation markets while integrating newer technology.

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The MA60 was introduced in 2000 with Sichuan Airlines as its launch customer. It is powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW127J engines. Over time, it has been operated by several airlines such as Lao Airlines, Nepal Airlines, Myanmar National Airlines, and Merpati Nusantara Airlines.

In 2010, AVIC launched the MA600 as an improved variant of the MA60. It offers upgrades like enhanced avionics for better flight management, improved fuel efficiency, refined cabin design for passenger comfort, and reduced maintenance costs.

Despite being niche aircraft, the MA60 and MA600 have found demand across Asia, Africa, Latin America, and even government sectors for utility roles. A notable example is the delivery of an MA600 to the Malawian government in 2022.

These Chinese-made airliners may not be widely recognized globally but continue to build a reputation as affordable options for regional carriers with AVIC's support.

Organizations Included in this History
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