Bombardier’s Q400 NextGen turboprop aircraft has been selected by Canada’s WestJet for its new regional airline, which is expected to be operational in the second half of 2013.
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The selection finally puts an end to the competition between Bombardier and ATR, a joint venture of European Aeronautic Defence and Space Co.
Commenting on the latest order, WestJet president and CEO Gregg Saretsky said: "Both ATR and Bombardier put forward excellent proposals and ultimately we believe the Bombardier Q400’s combination of range, speed and seat density is the best choice to meet the needs of the market and how we plan to operate the regional airline."
As stated in the letter of intent signed by WestJet, Bombardier will deliver 20 Q400s with an option for an additional 25 aircraft to be supplied over the next six years, if it is exercised by the airline.
Bombardier commercial aircraft president Mike Arcamone said that WestJet had selected the Q400 NextGen aircraft for its fleet expansion requirements.
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By GlobalData"The Q400 NextGen aircraft has long been recognised as the turboprop best suited to perform in the robust Canadian and US landscape and environments," he said.
The final selling price for the aircraft has not been disclosed, although it is believed that the total value of the deal could amount to $1.4bn, based on the list price of the model.
The new aircraft delivery will allow WestJet to schedule improvements for increased frequency and extend its service to new cities, as well as existing destinations not connected by the airline.
The initial regional schedule using the Q400s will be revealed by the airline in the later part of this year.
Booked firm orders for Q400 and Q400 NextGen airliners with Bombardier comes to 428 and the aircraft already delivered are in service with 40 operators in 30 countries, on six continents.
Image: WestJet selects Bombardier Q400 NextGen aircraft for its new regional airline. Photo: courtesy of Bombardier.
