The Xi'an MA60: A Chinese Turboprop Designed for Rugged Terrain and Short Regional Flights

Countries & Cities · Published 15 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Engineered by the Xi'an Aircraft Industrial Corporation, the MA60 is a twin-engine turboprop built to operate in challenging environments with minimal ground support. While it offers versatile capabilities for regional transport, the aircraft has faced significant scrutiny regarding its safety record, maintenance requirements, and international regulatory standing over the years.

The MA60, or Modern Ark 60, traces its lineage to the Xi'an Y7-200A, which was itself derived from the An-24. Designed for short-haul operations, the aircraft features a high-wing configuration that provides clearance for rough, unprepared surfaces like grass or compacted earth. It is powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW127J engines, each delivering 2,051 kW of power. The cabin is designed to accommodate up to 60 passengers, making it a common choice for small feeder airlines and charter companies.

Despite its utility, the MA60 has not secured certification from the US Federal Aviation Administration or the European Union Aviation Safety Agency. This lack of Western certification has limited its operational footprint. By the end of 2006, the manufacturer had delivered 23 units, with dozens more orders on the books. However, the aircraft's history is marked by a series of incidents. As of November 2015, there were 14 recorded accidents involving the type, ranging from landing gear failures and runway excursions to a fatal crash in Indonesia in 2011.

These operational challenges have led to varied international responses. In 2013, the New Zealand government advised against using the aircraft due to its accident history and lack of certification in comparable jurisdictions. By early 2016, reports indicated that nearly half of the 57 exported MA60s were in storage due to performance issues or maintenance difficulties. More recently, operators like Nepal Airlines have grounded their fleets, citing high operating costs and performance that failed to meet expectations, highlighting the complex balance between regional accessibility and long-term fleet reliability.

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