Description:
The MA60 is an advanced regional turboprop aircraft developed in China by Xian Aircraft Company (XAC) and marketed by CATIC. The aircraft features operational flexibility, low acquisition and operating costs making it highly suitable for carriers with low budgets. The MA60 turboprop aircraft meets the regulations of CCAR Part 25 and FAR Part 25 and is certified by Civil Aviation Authority of China (CAAC). The first production aircraft was delivered to a Chinese carrier in August 2000.
The aircraft has been designed to carry 52, 56 or 60 passengers inside its high comfort cabin at ranges of 1,400 kilometers covering short and regional routes. The MA60 is powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW-127J turboprops rated at 2,880-shp each and driving four-blade propellers and is equipped with advanced avionics. Overall, the MA60 design focuses on frequent commuter operations in all weather conditions and operating from "hot and high" airfields.
In addition to the passenger transport role, the MA60 is suitable for VIP, troops and cargo transport; maritime patrol; medical evacuation; and paratroopers delivery missions. In November 2004, CATIC achieved an important milestone by signing the first export order with Air Zimbabwe. Air Zimbabwe's two MA60s were delivered in April 2005. In April 2005, CATIC signed another export order with Air Fiji for one MA60. Thereafter, export agreements have been signed with customers in Eritrea and Republic of Congo.
Specifications Accommodation: Passengers 60
Dimensions: Height 4.2 m, Length 11.6 m, Wingspan 9.6 m
Weights: Fuel Load 4,030 kg (8,884 lb), Max Landing Weight 21,200 kg (46,737 lb), Max Weight 21,800 kg (48,060 lb), Min Weight 13,700 kg (30,203 lb), Payload 5,500 kg (12,125 lb)
Performance: Cabin Height 1.9 m (6 ft), Cabin Width 2.7 m (9 ft), Ceiling 7,620 m (25,000 ft), Cruise Speed 514 kph (319 mph), Landing Run Distance 1,060 m (3,478 ft), Max Range 1,430 km (772 nm) carrying 56 passengers, Take Off Run Distance 1,100 m (3,609 ft)
China
Aircraft ordered by Sichuan Airlines
Eritrea / 
Fiji / 1 
Republic of the Congo / 
Zimbabwe / 2