Bombardier has begun the first set of systems tests and simulations for its CSeries aircraft at its Mirabel, Quebec facility, which will continue all through the year to ensure continued aircraft validation on the ground, prior to its flight testing.
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At ‘Aircraft 0’, also known as complete integrated aircraft systems test area (CIASTA), the plane maker will also perform tests on the aircraft’s engine and electrical system, and is expected to test around 90% of the aircraft’s systems in the first half of this year.
Bombardier said that the test data confirms that the aircraft development programme is on course, marking its drive towards entry-into-service (EIS) late next year.
Bombardier Commercial Aircraft CSeries vice president and general manager, Rob Dewar, said: "Over 200 components and systems for the aircraft are being tested worldwide."
Pratt & Whitney’s PW1500G engine, which will power the CSeries aircraft, has completed 1,300 hours of full engine testing and has also finished the first set of final assembly tooling.
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By GlobalDataThe company is also performing assembly simulation exercises to enhance learning while its prime focus is on the pre-validation of the assembly process, in addition to environmental health and safety requirements.
The 100 to 149-seater CSeries aircraft family, weighing 12,000lbs (5,443kg), can cruise up to a range of 2,950nm (5,463km), and is expected to offer enhanced cash operating and fuel burn advantages.
Bombardier has received firm orders for 138 CSeries aircraft from customers that include Braathens Aviation, Deutsche Lufthansa, Korean Air, Lease Corporation International, PrivatAir and Republic Airways.
The company’s CSeries aircraft programme has also booked options for 124 aircraft and purchase rights for 10 aircraft, in addition to letters of intent for around 30 aircraft from Ilyushin Finance and for 15 CS300 aircraft from Atlasjet.
Image: The Bombardier CSeries aircraft is expected to enter service in 2013. Photo: Bombardier.
