GE began testing its CF34-10A engine, selected to power China's ARJ21 aircraft now in development by the AVIC I Commercial Aircraft Company. The engine reached about 70 percent of take-off power. The first engine to test (FETT) for the CF34-10A started testing on schedule last week at the Peebles, Ohio, outdoor test facility.
The CF34-10A is based on the CF34-10E with approximately 80 percent common design/hardware. The advanced engine technology will not only provide the thrust capability to meet aircraft performance requirements, but will also give customers low-cost operations with a highly reliable, easily maintainable propulsion system. The ARJ21 aircraft is scheduled to roll-out in December with first flight set for first quarter 2008 and entry into service in 2009.