Chinese manufacturer chooses Dunlop tyres for upcoming turboprop aircraft

An announcement made by Dunlop Aircraft Tyres at the Paris Air Show today confirms the original equipment supply of its tyres to Chinese manufacturer AVIC Aircraft Xi’an Branch for fitment on a turboprop regional airliner that is currently being developed. Six Dunlop tyres (two for the nose wheels and four for the main wheels) will be fitted to each Modern Ark 700 (MA700) aircraft; AVIC Aircraft Xi’an Branch anticipates selling approximately MA700 units around the world.

AVIC Aircraft Xi’an Branch says that the MA700 will burn about ten per cent less fuel than its competitors and will be the first China-made turboprop aircraft to gain certification by western authorities. The 70-seat aircraft is due to make its first flight in 2017 ahead of entry into service in 2019 with launch customers Okay Airways and Joy Air.

“Dunlop’s track record, particularly within the regional turboprop marketplace, means we can depend on the company to deliver for us and our customers,” said Wang Bing, director of programme management department at AVIC Aircraft Xi’an Branch. “Not only will Dunlop be a key partner during the development of the aircraft, but once the MA700 is in service the company’s ability to retread tyres here in China as well as in Europe and the Americas will mean that we can jointly serve the needs of our global customer base.”

Ian Edmondson, chairman of Dunlop Aircraft Tyres, added: “AVIC is looking to be a major player in the regional turboprop marketplace and we are very excited to have been selected as the tyre supplier for the MA700. The MA700 selection will help Dunlop retain its strong share of the regional market segment.”