The General Electric CT7 is the civil-certified branch of the T700/CT7 engine family, encompassing both turboshaft and turboprop designs. Its applications include regional airliners, utility transports and medium helicopters. The turboprop received certification in 1983 and entered airline service on the Saab 340 in June 1984.[1][2]
Regional turboprops
The approximately 1,900 shp CT7 turboprop was subsequently selected for the CASA/IPTN CN235. That aircraft brought the engine into transport, maritime patrol and surveillance operations as well as passenger service. GE's support relationship with Indonesia included engine work at Nusantara Turbin dan Propulsi in Bandung, reflecting the international industrial arrangements surrounding the CN235 programme.[1]
Helicopter branches
The CT7-2 belongs to the approximately 2,000 shp class, while the CT7-8 covers a higher 2,500–3,000 shp range. These branches serve helicopters used for passenger and executive transport, offshore operations, firefighting and rescue. Their designation as CT7s therefore does not imply a propeller-aircraft installation: substantial parts of the family deliver shaft power to helicopter transmissions.[2]
Modern controls
The CT7-2E1 received FAA and EASA engine certification in 2013 and entered service on the AW189. It incorporates full-authority digital electronic control and improved hot-section materials. The CT7-8A powers the Sikorsky S-92. Both applications illustrate continued development of the family for newer helicopter requirements after its original regional-airliner introduction.[3]
Shared operating experience
GE describes the T700/CT7 as developed for reliable operation and accessible maintenance following experience with earlier helicopter engines in Southeast Asia. The civil CT7 inherited that emphasis while adapting to airline and commercial-helicopter service. The result was a family able to support both fixed-wing and rotary-wing missions through related core technology, distinct output arrangements and application-specific improvements.[3]