Build of flight test vehicles and safety-of-flight testing of on-the-ground integrated systems rig advancing to schedule
Bombardier Aerospace announced today that it has successfully completed the first full powering on of the main electrical distribution system on the first CSeries flight test vehicle (FTV1). Additionally, Bombardier confirmed that the wing down-bending static test was successfully concluded on the Complete Airframe Static Test (CAST) article at the company’s Saint-Laurent, Québec facility in late March 2013. Together with the wing up-bending static test that was completed earlier in March 2013, the two most significant wing static tests required for first flight are now complete.
The company also confirmed that safety-of-flight tests are progressing well on “Aircraft 0” – the on-the-ground integrated systems test rig (ISTCR) for the CSeries aircraft.
“The powering on of the main electrical distribution system on FTV1 was one of the most exciting milestones so far in the CSeries aircraft development program and will now allow powering of all sub-systems and for the avionics suite testing,” said Rob Dewar, Vice President and General Manager, CSeries, Bombardier Commercial Aircraft. “As well, the last significant test on the CAST article − the down-bending test on the wing − was completed in late March, and we are thrilled with the analysis and feedback from the team, which allows progression to the next experimental phase. These are all important activities that will lead to the CSeries aircraft’s safety-of-flight permit.”
“The build of the flight test vehicles, the static airframe testing and the systems tests are all advancing to schedule. We are very satisfied with the CSeries aircraft’s excellent progress and weekly achievements as we advance solidly towards first flight,” added Mr. Dewar.
CSeries aircraft
Designed for the growing 100- to 149-seat market, the 100 per cent new CSeries aircraft family combines advanced materials, leading-edge technology and proven methods to meet commercial airline requirements in 2013 and beyond. Powered by Pratt & Whitney PurePower PW1500G engines, the CSeries aircraft family will offer a 15* per cent cash operating cost advantage and a 20* per cent fuel burn advantage. With the extra capacity seating option, the CS300 aircraft’s productivity further improves, offering airlines an average of four* per cent additional cash operating cost advantage per seat. The CSeries aircraft’s clean-sheet design is ensuring that the aircraft will achieve greatly reduced noise and emissions, as well as superior operational flexibility, exceptional airfield performance and a range of 2,950 nm (5,463 km)*. The CSeries aircraft will be up to 12,000 lbs. (5,443 kg)* lighter than other aircraft in the same seat category and will provide passengers with a best-in-class, widebody cabin environment in a single-aisle aircraft.
As of December 31, 2012, Bombardier had booked orders and commitments for 382 CSeries aircraft, which include firm orders for 148 CSeries airliners.
About Bombardier
Bombardier is the world’s only manufacturer of both planes and trains. Looking far ahead while delivering today, Bombardier is evolving mobility worldwide by answering the call for more efficient, sustainable and enjoyable transportation everywhere. Our vehicles, services and, most of all, our employees are what make us a global leader in transportation.
Bombardier is headquartered in Montréal, Canada. Our shares are traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange (BBD) and we are listed on the Dow Jones Sustainability World and North America Indexes. In the fiscal year ended December 31, 2012, we posted revenues of $16.8 billion. News and information are available at bombardier.com or follow us on Twitter @Bombardier.
Notes to editors
- Photo: FTV1 - the first CSeries flight test vehicle.
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* The CSeries aircraft are in the development phase. All data and specifications are estimates, subject to changes in family strategy, branding, capacity and performance during the development, manufacture and certification process. All performance references have been estimated based on a 500-nm North American operating environment and comparisons are to in-production aircraft.
Bombardier, CS300, CSeries and The Evolution of Mobility are trademarks of Bombardier Inc. or its subsidiaries.
For information
Marc Duchesne
Bombardier Commercial Aircraft
+1-416-375-3030
Email