Market analysis for small and mid-size commercial turboprop aircraft

Recent fuel price volatility and growing concerns about the efficiency of regional jets have led to a revival of large turboprop aircraft as efficient passenger carriers on short-haul regional routes. Since most small and mid-size turboprop manufacturers have gone bankrupt or discontinued production due to some other reasons, current operators of this aircraft class are left with aging fleets. This paper assesses the feasibility of developing a new generation small turboprop aircraft for regional and commuter airline markets through a survey of industry participants. A mail-in questionnaire asked the respondents to evaluate the potential market and their companies' needs for new small turboprops. In addition, the respondents outlined desired characteristics and design features for a new generation small turboprop. The results indicate that a market for 20-50 seat turboprops exists, and current operators are looking for performance and design characteristics that their aging fleets cannot provide.