China's first regional jet lands in Yangzhou for test fight

Crew members and aircraft engineers pose for a group photo in front of ARJ21-700, the third prototype of ARJ21 (Advanced Regional Jet 21) series, China's first self-developed regional jets. [Photo/yztairport.net]

ARJ21-700, the third prototype of ARJ21 (Advanced Regional Jet 21) series, China's first self-developed regional jets, arrived at Yangzhou Taizhou International Airport in Yangzhou, Jiangsu province, on June 27. 

Carrying a crew of testers and technicians, the aircraft will go through one month of trial flights, with the aim of conducting experiments and collecting data for potential further improvements. 

The jet has a capacity of 90 passengers, along with twin turbine engines and a standard range of 2,225 kilometers. 

Designed to fly busy routes between key cities and surrounding areas, the aircraft is expected to serve airlines that fly from Yangzhou Taizhou International Airport in the near future. 

Li Ming, an airport official, said they are sparing no efforts to ensure the test flights go without a hitch. 

One such measure is, due to the potential instability of test flights, the airport has reserved a specific gate position as well as extra spacious routes for the jet to fly in. Close flight monitoring is also taking place during the period of the test flights, which is expected to last until the end of July.