Bombardier Aerospace today announced the achievement of key product development milestones on the Global 7000 and Global 8000 aircraft program with the start of production and assembly of major structures for the first Flight Test Vehicle (FTV1) of the Global 7000 and Global 8000 aircraft program.

"We are entering an exciting phase of the Global 7000 and Global 8000 aircraft program," said Bassam Sabbagh, Vice President and General Manager, Global 7000 and Global 8000 aircraft program. "The program is progressing well in the detailed design phase (DDP) with the majority of the production drawings already released. The start of assembly of our first major structures represents a significant step forward."

Structural and system suppliers, as well as various Bombardier Aerospace manufacturing sites, are engaged in manufacturing parts and major structures for FTV1. The rear fuselage and cockpit are currently being assembled at Bombardier Aerospace's manufacturing facilities in Queretaro, Mexico, and St-Laurent, Canada, respectively. The centre fuselage is being assembled at Aerolia's manufacturing facility in Meaulte, France, and the wing is being assembled at Triumph's facility in Red Oak, Texas.

Set to enter-into-service in 2016 and 2017 respectively, the new Global 7000 and Global 8000 aircraft exemplify Bombardier's visionary thinking. Both jets will have the ability to reach more destinations non-stop than ever before, delivering unprecedented levels of performance, flexibility and comfort.