GE H80-Powered L410 Takes Off on Maiden Flight

Bethany Whitfield

Tuesday, November 22, 2011 at 10:12 PM ET

Verified

The GE H80-powered L410

Key Takeaways:

A Czech-built L410 aircraft, equipped with new GE H80 turboprop engines, successfully completed its first 40-minute test flight, initiating the certification process for this engine-aircraft combination.
This flight marks the first application of the H80 engine in a commuter airplane, with initial test data being positive.
The new engine is expected to improve the L410's performance and expand its market reach globally, with certification anticipated by Q3 next year.
After certification, the H80 engine will be offered on all new L410 aircraft and as an upgrade option for existing models.

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A Czech-built L410 powered by two GE H80 turboprop engines took off for the first time on Wednesday for a 40-minute test flight, jump-starting the next step in the certification process for the aircraft-engine combination.

The flight took place in Kunovice in the Czech Republic and, according to Paul Theofan, president of GE Aviation Czech, signifies the first time the H80 has been used to power a commuter airplane.