12/04/2013

East Belfast Benefits From Bombardier Order

Belfast's Bombardier airline manufacturing plant is set to receive a boost following news that that Porter Airlines has agreed to purchase 12 CS100 airliners, with options for an additional 18 CS100 aircraft.

The wings of the C-series aircraft are built at the factory in East Belfast.

The announcement was made at Porter Airlines’ home base at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport

"Following an in-depth analysis of existing and re-engined aircraft, we have selected the all-new CS100 airliner for its flexibility and suitability for urban operations, including outstanding fuel efficiency and short airfield performance, as well as reduced sound and emissions," said Robert Deluce, President and Chief Executive Officer, Porter Airlines.

"The aircraft fits perfectly into our business plans and growth strategy and we are also proud to be the Canadian launch customer for Bombardier’s CSeries aircraft. We look forward to expanding our network with an all-Bombardier fleet of CS100 jetliners and Q400 turboprops – promoting greener, quieter flying."

The first CSeries flight test vehicle (FTV1) is in its final stages of build and is progressing towards the transfer to the flight test phase following the completion of the full powering up of the main electrical distribution system in March 2013.

Alliance Party east Belfast MP Naomi Long has welcomed the news.

She said: "This is further positive news for Bombardier and the workforce at its east Belfast factory. It is good for the economy, not just in east Belfast but in Northern Ireland. This order shows that Belfast can play a part in large international business deals.

"This is the latest in a number of large orders that have been secured by Bombardier in recent months, which is important in sustaining the long term future of their east Belfast site.

"It is an indication of the hard work of the Bombardier workers whose product is rightly viewed as being among the best in the world.

"Bombardier is one of the most respected firms in the Northern Irish economy. It is following in the tradition of other great industrial and manufacturing companies such as Harland and Wolff that put Northern Ireland on the world map. With this deal, it will continue Northern Ireland's proud industrial heritage."

(IT/CD)

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