Japan’s Mitsubishi Aircraft said Thursday it has signed a deal with US-based SkyWest for 100 jets worth $4.2 billion, with an option to buy another 100 planes.
In a statement, the Japanese firm said it expected to deliver the first batch of planes from 2017 while the optional order could be delivered from 2021.
“Without a doubt, this is a major order and significant boost for the MRJ (Mitsubishi Regional Jet) programme,” Mitsubishi Aircraft chief Hideo Egawa said in a statement.
Mitsubishi Aircraft, set up in 2008 and backed by several top Japanese firms including conglomerate Mitsubishi, automaker Toyota and trading giant Sumitomo, said this year it had reached a deal in principle with the US company for an order.
“SkyWest believes the MRJ with its significant advancements in fuel economy, passenger comfort and environmental friendliness, will be a valued addition to our fleet,” said SkyWest President Bradford Rich.
The Japanese firm’s 70-90 seat regional jets are touted as having a next-generation design that is fuel-efficient and cuts down on noise.
Japan's Mitsubishi Aircraft in 100-jet deal with SkyWest
