JAPAN'S AIRCRAFT MANUFACTURERS will begin offering concepts of their proposed YS-X regional jet transport to airlines early next year. The Japan Aircraft Development Corp. (JADC), which is cooperating with Boeing on the 80-100-seat ``JB Small'' or ``New Small Aircraft'' program, is still trying to determine which of two configurations to propose. The first has a new fuselage and modified Boeing 737 wing.

A next-generation CNA Manufacturing Systems' modular pogo fixture in this combined artist's rendition/photo holds a typical aircraft skin panel in preparation for routing work.

REP. WILLIAM F. CLINGER (R.-PA.) IS EXPECTED to replace Rep. James L. Oberstar (D.-Minn.) as chairman of the House aviation subcommittee.