China's major aircraft manufacturer announced on Thursday the launch of its new regional turboprop program, an indication that the country is investing heavily to grab a bigger share of the civil aviation market.

Dong Jianhong, chief designer of the aircraft at Aviation Industry Corp of China, the nation's largest aircraft manufacturer, said at a news conference in Beijing that the next-generation turboprop, the 78-seat MA-700, will serve regional air transportation within an 800-km range and be able to fly at high altitudes and in high temperatures.

He said the AVIC turboprop will have a cutting-edge design, low operation and maintenance costs, eco-friendly technology and rigorous safety standards.