Dunlop Aircraft Tyres announced today at Paris Air Show that it has been selected to provide tyres for a new turboprop regional airliner being developed by Chinese manufacturer AVIC Aircraft Xi'an Branch.

Each Modern Ark 700 aircraft (MA700) will require six tyres (two for the nosewheels and four for the mainwheels) and the manufacturer projects worldwide sales of approximately 800 aircraft.

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 Mr 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, said: “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”