Bombardier Aerospace and U.K-based FlyBE. (formerly British European) on April 23 have agreed to a contract for the purchase of advanced Bombardier Q400(i) regional airliners. The agreement includes 17 firm orders for Bombardier Q400 aircraft valued at $362 million U.S. and a further 20 options. Deliveries of the 78-seat aircraft are scheduled to begin in the second quarter of 2003. The total value of the contract, if the 20 options are exercised, could reach $818 million U.S. Addition of the 17 Bombardier Q400 aircraft will increase FlyBE.'s Q400 fleet to 21 aircraft. The airline also operates 15 BAe 146 jets. 

"The Bombardier Q400 delivers fantastically low operating costs, which is critical to our regional low fares business model. The Q400 is set to become the workhorse of the regional low fares market and we are very pleased to be the leading exponent of the product," said Jim French, managing director of FlyBE. "We announced last year our intention to streamline our fleet to two aircraft types. With the announcement today to standardize on the Bombardier Q400, we will drive millions of dollars in operating cost savings, and help consolidate our position as Europe's No. 1 regional low fares provider."

Mr. French added, "The jet performance of the Bombardier Q400 is a major selling point, together with its exceptionally quiet cabin comfort. Passenger reaction has been extremely positive."

"We are delighted that FlyBE. has come back for a second order for 17 Bombardier Q400 aircraft," said Steven A. Ridolfi, president, Bombardier Aerospace, Regional Aircraft. "Airlines in today's environment need to generate significant cost improvements. The Bombardier Q400 is the most efficient and cost effective regional aircraft available. As Mr. French has indicated, the added benefit of jet-like cruise speeds and excellent reliability makes it an unbeatable choice."

Formed 25 years ago as Jersey European Airways, FlyBE. this summer will fly to 46 domestic and international routes, including 12 routes from its new hub at Southampton Airport in central southern UK. FlyBE. sister company, British European Aviation Services, is the only Bombardier recognized Q(i)Series/Dash 8(i) maintenance facility in Europe. The company performs "C" checks and other heavy maintenance at its facility at Exeter International Airport in southwest England.

The Bombardier Q400 order book, including options and conditional orders, totals 189 aircraft with 71 delivered and in operation as of Feb. 28 with eleven customers throughout North America, Europe and the Asia/Pacific region.

FMI: www.aero.bombardier.com