Bombardier's New Airplane Finally Off The Ground

Aero-News Realtime Update 09.16.13 1430 EDT

The CSeries Flight Test Vehicle has completed its first flight, according to Bombardier.

“During its maiden flight, CSeries FTV1 reached an altitude of 12,500 feet and an air speed of 230 knots," said Rob Dewar, Vice President and General Manager of the CSeries Program. "In-flight tests included flap and landing gear retractions and extensions; in-flight maneuvers that included a simulated landing; and early validation of the flight control system. Additionally, we’re also delighted that many of our guests commented on the impressive and quiet performance during takeoff and landing,” he said.

A total of five CS100 flight test vehicles, all of which are currently in various stages of assembly, will join the flight test program in the coming months.

Look for a full report tomorrow on Aero-News, and on our Airborne video recap.

Original Story:

The first flight of Bombardier's CSeries airplane got underway about 0950 EDT Monday from Mirabel International Airport in Montreal, Canada.

The first flight had been scheduled about nine months ago, but had been delayed three times as Bombardier worked out technical problems with the airplane. Painted in Bombardier blue and white livery, the airplane took off very quietly, according to those at Mirabel. Tweets from the site included, "That aircraft was silent. Absolutely silent", and ‏"Pardon, #CSeries? Can you do that again? I didn't hear you."

Bombardier is hoping that the CSeries can give it entree into the single-aisle market competing with Boeing's 737 and Airbus' A320.

The Toronto Star reports that a Bombardier Global 5000 took off before the CSeries departed to determine weather conditions. Flight Test Vehicle 1 took off shortly thereafter with a crew of three on board. The Global 5000 also served as chase plane for the first flight.

Bombardier has 177 firm orders for the airplane, and 388 total orders and commitments on its books for both the CSeries 100, which flew Monday, and the larger CS300. So far it has invested some $3.4 billion in the production of the new airplane.

(Image from Bombardier video stream)

FMI: www.bombardier.com