Bombardier to present CRJ NextGen family at Paris

Bombardier Aerospace will introduce the next generation versions of its CRJ regional jet family to the world airline industry at the 2007 Paris Air Show at LeBourget, from June 18-24. A CRJ900 NextGen aircraft in Northwest Airlines livery will be on static display outside the Bombardier chalet, A367. The aircraft has a two-class configuration with 12 three-abreast first class and 64 four-abreast economy class seats. The Northwest CRJ900 NextGen aircraft was introduced to North America at a briefing for the media at Washington Dulles International Airport on June 5, 2007. Announced on May 31, 2007, the CRJ700 NextGen, CRJ900 NextGen and CRJ1000 NextGen aircraft feature operating cost improvements, an all-new cabin and increased use of composite materials. "The CRJ NextGen family is the next step in the continuing evolution of the CRJ Series," said Steven Ridolfi, President, Bombardier Regional Aircraft, when the program was announced. "The new interior will enhance the passenger experience and we have lowered the operating costs to airlines. We believe this will be a winning combination as we move further into the 21 st century." CRJ NextGen aircraft will achieve even better economics compared to the existing standard of CRJ Series aircraft. These improvements, under certain operating conditions, will 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 are being increased, and tasks are being harmonized to reduce aircraft down time and labour over the life of the aircraft. "The NextGen aircraft will offer advantages in operating costs versus their nearest competitors, which will have up to 15 per cent higher trip operating costs," said Mr. Ridolfi. "These cost benefits and new cabin standards are compelling reasons for airlines to strongly consider the CRJ NextGen aircraft for their requirements."

With their reduced fuel burn, the CRJ NextGen aircraft will respond to today's environmental challenges by offering further reduction in green house gas emissions compared to their nearest competitors. Following the Paris show, the CRJ900 NextGen jetliner will conduct a European demonstration tour for airlines and the aircraft financing community. The demonstration tour is expected to stop in Belfast, Northern Ireland, where components are manufactured by Bombardier's Shorts facility, to present the aircraft to the employees.