Etihad Airways reportedly talks with Mitsubishi Aircraft Corporation

Etihad Airways reportedly announced talks with Mitsubishi Aircraft Corporation, regarding the manufacturer's Mitsubishi Regional Jet (MRJ), which is expected to enter commercial service in 2014 (Emirates Business 24/7, 20-Jan-2010). The manufacturer plans to conduct a test flight of the 100-seat jet in 2012.

Mitsubishi Aircraft Corporation: "We expect a strong demand for this aircraft because it will save money. We have secured orders from Japan and the US and are negotiating with some airlines in the Middle East. The negotiations include Etihad Airways. They are in the first stages, but Etihad has expressed interest in the jet. The MRJ will significantly cut fuel consumption by up to 20 per cent, noise and emissions," Hiromichi Takakuma, Marketing Manager. Source: Emirates Business 24/7, 20-Jan-2010.