Japan-based Mitsubishi Aircraft has postponed the delivery of its first regional jet by another two years.

Marking the fifth delay since the start of the aircraft programme, the company has postponed the delivery of the first Mitsubishi Regional Jet (MRJ) from mid-next year to mid-2020.

"The postponement is due to amendments of certain systems and electrical configurations on the MRJ to meet the latest certification requirements."

A unit of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI), Mitsubishi Aircraft noted that the delay is due to amendments of certain systems and electrical configurations on the MRJ to comply with the latest certification requirements.

In November 2015, MRJ took its first flight, and three aircraft are currently undergoing flight tests in the US.

A business promotion committee has also been established to oversee the development of the MRJ programme.

Last August, Mitsubishi Aircraft signed a deal with US-based aircraft leasing company Aerolease Aviation for the sale of ten firm MRJ90 aircraft with an option of ten more MRJ90 aircraft.

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The order has brought the total number of MRJ aircraft on order to 427, including 233 firm, 170 option and 24 purchase rights.

According to Mitsubishi Aircraft, the next-generation MRJ jet is designed to reduce fuel consumption, noise and emissions.

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