U.K. carrier cites low operating costs, high passenger appeal.
Bombardier Aerospace announced today that U.K.-based FlyBE, one of Europe's leading low cost airlines, has placed a firm order for 20 additional Bombardier Q400 high-speed turboprop airliners. Delivery of the 20 aircraft will increase the FlyBE Q400 fleet to 41 aircraft.
The transaction announced today is valued at approximately $485 million U.S. and represents the conversion of FlyBE's 20 options to firm orders.
"The versatility of the Bombardier Q400 makes it a great aircraft for FlyBE," commented FlyBE Managing Director, Jim French. "Quiet, jet-like performance and great engineering will help us continue to deliver on-time flights and stay the most punctual airline on many of the routes we fly. It is also very economical to run and will be a key strategic weapon for FlyBE, in what is a very competitive marketplace."
"Airlines worldwide are facing tremendous economic pressures. The Bombardier Q400 changes the rules of the game. With 16 Q400 aircraft already delivering great value in the FlyBE fleet, their investment is testament to the Q400's spectacularly low operating costs, jet speed, and superior cabin comfort," said Steven Ridolfi, President, Bombardier Regional Aircraft. "The Q400 represents the way for the industry to grow the business and the bottom line at the same time. It truly delivers turboProfits."
FlyBE, based at Exeter in southwest England, serves 41 destinations in the U.K and Europe.
Today's announcement increases firm orders for the Bombardier Q400 to 141 aircraft. As of December 31, 2004, 88 had been delivered to 10 operators in North America, Europe and the Asia/Pacific region.
About Bombardier
A world-leading manufacturer of innovative transportation solutions, from regional aircraft and business jets to rail transportation equipment, Bombardier Inc. is a global corporation headquartered in Canada. Its revenues for the fiscal year ended Jan. 31, 2004 were $15.5 billion US and its shares are traded on the Toronto and Frankfurt stock exchanges (BBD and BBDd.F). News and information are available at www.bombardier.com.
Bombardier and Q400 are trademarks of Bombardier Inc. or its subsidiaries.
For information:
Bert Cruickshank
Bombardier Aerospace
(416) 375-3030
www.bombardier.com