CRJ And Q400 Both Reported To Be Performing More Efficiently Than Expected

According to its internal research, Bombardier says that both the CRJ1000 NextGen regional jet and Q400 turboprop airliner are achieving better than expected fuel burn.

The company's statistics indicate that the CRJ1000 NextGen aircraft is achieving a mission fuel consumption rate that is 4 per cent better than estimated. The additional savings in fuel burn results in an average annual savings of approximately $220,000 US per aircraft. The improved fuel burn also directly results in a four per cent reduction in carbon dioxide emissions, equivalent to an average reduction of nearly 700 tons of greenhouse gases per aircraft, each year.

The CRJ1000 NextGen aircraft is also reportedly achieving six per cent greater range than previously estimated, providing additional operational flexibility.

Since the aircraft's entry into service in December 2010, Brit Air and Air Nostrum are both reporting the excellent passenger appeal and very high reliability of the CRJ1000 NextGen aircraft, as shown by their scheduled completion rate of 99.9 per cent and the aircraft's 99.4 per cent dispatch reliability.

Brit Air has ordered 14 CRJ1000 NextGen aircraft, while Air Nostrum has ordered 35. Introduced specifically to meet the needs of growing regional airlines for jets with up to 100 seats, the CRJ1000 NextGen regional jet offers superior economics, low operating costs and proven cabin comfort. The aircraft is the optimized solution in the regional airline industry for medium-haul route applications, particularly for the replacement of older-generation single-aisle aircraft in thin markets.

For operators of the Q400 turboprop, Bombardier said the aircraft is on target to deliver up to 1.5 per cent in additional fuel burn improvements, along with the two per cent improvement already achieved during high-speed cruise.

"The Q400 turboprop continues to deliver the best overall operating economics in its market segment, and Bombardier is providing continuous improvements to the aircraft's product offering, including a new business-class configuration, enhanced navigation systems and a drop-down oxygen system to further extend the operational capabilities of the aircraft," said Gary R. Scott, President, Bombardier Commercial Aircraft.

To give operators more flexibility, Bombardier confirmed Thursday that it is offering a new dual-class configuration for the Q400 NextGen aircraft. Later this year, Bombardier will deliver the first Q400 NextGen aircraft with a business-class section, featuring three-abreast seating for premium service and comfort. The launch customer for the new cabin offering will be announced at a later date. This new dual-class cabin configuration will also be available as a retrofit for in-service aircraft.

Bombardier completed the development of an optional drop-down oxygen system for the Q400 NextGen aircraft in December 2010 to further extend the operational capabilities of the aircraft. The system can provide up to 22 minutes of emergency oxygen and has been ordered by customers that fly over mountain ranges for extended periods of time.

To support greater efficiency in the use of airspace and allow for shorter routings, additional fuel efficiencies, better obstacle clearance and avoidance of noise-sensitive areas, Bombardier is on track to complete its performance-based Required Navigation Performance (RNP APCH) program for the Q400 NextGen aircraft later this year. The RNP APCH capability will be provided as an optional feature and is in accordance with the ICAO performance-based navigation (PBN) manual. Updated capability statements will be provided in the Aircraft Flight Manual (AFM).

In addition, together with launch-customer Japan Air Commuter, Bombardier has developed a Space-Based Augmentation System (SBAS) option for the Q400 NextGen aircraft. SBAS, also referred to as Wide Area Augmentation System (WAAS) in North America, provides greater navigation capabilities, less reliance on ground-based navigation aids and the potential for more efficient air routes, resulting in both time and fuel cost savings.

FMI: www.bombardier.com