Manufacturers of regional aircraft experienced another robust year in 2007 as orders for larger RJs more than made up for the lack of sales for 50-seat RJs. The transition to 70/90-seat jets meant plenty of business for Bombardier and Embraer, while soaring fuel costs helped push sales of ATR 42/72 and Q400 turboprops to record levels. Anxious to enter the regional jet market within the next 12-24 months are new aircraft from Sukhoi of Russia and AVIC of China, while Mitsubishi of Japan plans to have its 70/90-seat Mitsubishi Regional Jet in service in 2013.
Inreased Demand for Regional Jets Means More Pilots are Needed
