West Air Europe To Acquire First Bombardier CRJ200 Aircraft For Cargo Operations

- Bombardier Aerospace Launches Package Freighter Program

Bombardier Aerospace today announced that West Air Europe of Gothenburg, Sweden has signed a contract to acquire two previously owned Bombardier CRJ200 regional jets for conversion to an all-cargo configuration. Bombardier Aerospace has simultaneously launched the CRJ200 PF (Package Freighter) program.

West Air Europe, Sweden’s largest air freight carrier, currently operates scheduled and charter small package and airmail services within Sweden and to other points in Europe. Its current fleet is comprised of 17 turboprops.

“We require the Bombardier CRJ200 PF aircraft to fulfill specific customer demands for higher than turboprop speeds on routes of more than 575 miles (925 km),” said Gustaf Thureborn, President, West Air Europe. “So we are pleased to place this order with Bombardier. It is confirmation of our mission to meet the demand for efficient freight transportation with a customized aircraft fleet.”

“The CRJ200 PF aircraft allows direct flights on longer, thin routes that are currently flown by larger aircraft,” said Rod Sheridan, Vice-President, Asset Management, Bombardier Regional Aircraft. Since the introduction of the concept, considerable interest has been expressed by many prospective customers.”

In the all-cargo configuration, the CRJ200 PF aircraft will have a cargo volume of approximately 1,700 cubic ft. (48.2 cubic m) and 14,000 pounds (6,350 kg). Maximum take-off weight will be 53,000 pounds (24,040 kg), the same as the high gross weight version of the CRJ200 aircraft.

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, 2006, were $14.7 billion US and its shares are traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange (BBD). News and information are available at www.bombardier.com.

Bombardier and CRJ200 are trademarks of Bombardier Inc. or its subsidiaries.

For information
Marc Holloran
Bombardier Aerospace
(416) 375-3030
www.bombardier.com