Bombardier Aerospace announced today that Felix Airways of Sana’a, Yemen has signed a firm order for eight Bombardier CRJ700 NextGen airliners, and has taken options on an additional three. Felix Airways is owned by Yemenia (Yemen Airways) and strategic investors.
Based on the list price for the CRJ700 NextGen aircraft, the value of the firm contract is estimated at $276 million US. If all options are exercised, the contract value could rise to approximately $385 million US.
“Bombardier’s CRJ700 NextGen airliner was selected because of its reliability,” said Saleh Alawaji, Chairman, Felix Airways. “We are also certain our passengers will be pleased with the CRJ700 NextGen airliner’s speed and comfortable interior.”
“We are grateful for the confidence that Felix Airways has shown in the CRJ700 NextGen aircraft and we welcome the airline to the Bombardier family,” said Steven Ridolfi, President, Bombardier Regional Aircraft. “The CRJ700 NextGen airliner offers an excellent combination of speed, passenger comfort, fuel economy and environmental compatibility.”
The transaction announced today brings the CRJ Series order book to 1,647 aircraft, with 1,471 having been delivered as of January 31, 2008.
CRJ NextGen Aircraft
Bombardier’s CRJ NextGen aircraft were launched in 2007 and are achieving improved economics compared to earlier CRJ Series aircraft. These improvements come from fuel burn savings of up to four per cent and direct maintenance cost reductions achieved through lower airframe maintenance requirements. Maintenance schedule intervals have been increased, and tasks have been harmonized to reduce aircraft down time and labour over the life of the aircraft.
With their reduced fuel burn, the CRJ NextGen aircraft are responding to today’s environmental challenges by offering further reduction to green house gas emissions compared to their nearest competitors.
CRJ NextGen aircraft interiors include improvements designed with the overall passenger experience in mind. The passenger windows have been enlarged and the overhead bins have been modified to accommodate a larger roller bag as well as optimized to store more bags. The addition of LED lighting has brightened the cabin environment while highlighting the improved aesthetics achieved with the new ceiling panel design and dished window sidewalls.
About Bombardier
A world-leading manufacturer of innovative transportation solutions, from regional aircraft and business jets to rail transportation equipment, systems and services, Bombardier Inc. is a global corporation headquartered in Canada. Its revenues for the fiscal year ended Jan. 31, 2007, were $14.8 billion US, and its shares are traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange (BBD). News and information are available at www.bombardier.com.
Bombardier, CRJ, CRJ700 and NextGen are trademarks of Bombardier Inc. or its subsidiaries.
For information
John Arnone
Bombardier Aerospace
(416) 375-3030