Textron Lycoming has outlined plans to grow the LF500-series turbofan from the 31kN (7,000lb)-thrust-class LF507 powering the British Aerospace Regional JetLiner (formerly 146) up to 62kN for application to other regional airliners and large business jets.

At the heart of the LF500 growth plan is an improved core also under development for the T55ACE helicopter turboshaft which Lycoming is proposing for the Boeing Advanced Chinook (Flight International, 6-12 May). This features an increased-flow axial compressor, more-efficient impeller, advanced combustor and higher temperature turbine. The compressor has been tested, the impeller is about to run and the turbine could follow within 24 months, says commercial engineering director Keith Duly. The complete core could run...