British Aerospace
RJX
The RJX, introduced by British Aerospace in 1992, was the company's first foray into high‑performance, twin‑engine regional jet design. Developed under the codename ‘Project Pegasus’, the RJX emerged from a collaborative effort between BAe’s aerodynamics team and Rolls‑Royce’s new RB.203 turbofan programme. Its maiden flight took place on 14 March 1993 from Farnborough, and after an extensive certification program it entered commercial service with several European carriers in 1995.
Key features of the RJX include a carbon‑fiber composite wing, a 30‑degree swept leading edge, and a digital fly‑by‑wire control system that reduced pilot workload while improving fuel efficiency. The aircraft seats up to 78 passengers in a single‑aisle configuration, offering a range of 2,200 nautical miles and a cruise speed of Mach 0.78. Advanced avionics, such as an integrated glass cockpit and satellite‑based navigation, allowed operators to meet stringent noise and emission standards.
The RJX’s significance lies in its role as a bridge between legacy turbofan regional jets and the next generation of low‑cost, eco‑friendly airliners. Its successful deployment demonstrated the viability of composite structures in commercial aviation and influenced the design philosophy of later BAe models such as the Airbus A220 family.
Key features of the RJX include a carbon‑fiber composite wing, a 30‑degree swept leading edge, and a digital fly‑by‑wire control system that reduced pilot workload while improving fuel efficiency. The aircraft seats up to 78 passengers in a single‑aisle configuration, offering a range of 2,200 nautical miles and a cruise speed of Mach 0.78. Advanced avionics, such as an integrated glass cockpit and satellite‑based navigation, allowed operators to meet stringent noise and emission standards.
The RJX’s significance lies in its role as a bridge between legacy turbofan regional jets and the next generation of low‑cost, eco‑friendly airliners. Its successful deployment demonstrated the viability of composite structures in commercial aviation and influenced the design philosophy of later BAe models such as the Airbus A220 family.
