Jun 17 2013

Embraer launches new EJet Series for 2018 Delivery

Embraer E195-E2

On June 17th, 2013 Embraer announced the existence of a upgraded EJet series planned for delivery in 2018. With this announcement, the manufacturer also revealed that it had also received a large number of launch orders for the new type.

SkyWest placed a firm order for 100 Embraer 175s with options for an additional 100 aircraft while ILFC signed a letter of intent to buy 25 Embraer 190s and 25 Embraer 195s, with 50 options. Embraer also indicated letters of intent from five undisclosed airlines for 65 further second-generation E-Jets.

The new series can be noted by the addition of the code E2 to the existing model types and include the E175-E2, which is stretched one row and the E-195-E2, which is stretched by three seat rows. In addition there will be a redesigned wing and improved engines.

The E-195-E2 is aimed to compete directly against Bombardier’s CSeries, which seats between 110 and 145 passengers. There are just under 200 orders for the CSeries announced by Bombardier.

The E-190-E2 is planned to enter service in the second half of 2018, followed by the E-195-E2 in 2019, and the E175-E2 in 2021.

Jun 17 2013

Odyssey Airlines identified as buyer of 10 CSeries aircraft

Odyssey Airlines CSeries

Bombardier Aerospace announced on June 17th, 2013 that a previously announced firm order for 10 CS100 aircraft was placed by Odyssey Airlines, a new start-up airline that intends to operate from London City Airport. The firm order was originally announced on June 24, 2011.

As of March 31, 2013, Bombardier had booked orders and commitments for 388 CSeries aircraft, which included firm orders for 145 CSeries aircraft.

Jun 10 2013

Prototype CS100 readied for first flight

CS100 On Ramp

As part of the preparations for the first flight scheduled by the end of June 1013, Bombardier has moved the prototype CS100 aircraft to its test center.

Bombardier still holds that it will keep to its current schedule for first flight, rumors having it that this event will occur during the Paris Air Show for maximum coverage.

Jun 09 2013

Westjet receives first Q400s

WestJet DHC-8On June 7th, 2013, Westjet took delivery of the airline’s first two Q400 aircraft at a ceremony at the Bombardier assembly plant in Toronto.

WestJet has orders for 20 Q400s with an option for 25 additional aircraft. Current delivery schedules are that one aircraft will be delivered per month.

The airline has scheduled a ceremony on June 20th, 2013 at WestJet’s headquarters in Calgary before beginning operations on June 24th.