He's Getting a Lear 45
The Irish Minister for
Defence, Mr. Michael Smith (on right), and Bombardier Aerospace
officially finalized the transaction Wednesday during a brief
ceremony held in Dublin. The aircraft, designed for eight
passengers, is scheduled for delivery in December, in preparation
for Ireland's assumption of the European Union (EU) Presidency in
January 2004. It will be based at Casement Aerodrome, Baldonnel
near Dublin, from where it will offer nonstop service throughout
Europe including such cities as Brussels, Athens and Budapest.
Its primary mission is to provide national and regional nonstop
service for government personnel but the aircraft will also be
equipped to conduct air ambulance missions.
"The Learjet 45 has been adjudged the winner of my Department's
tender evaluation process on both technical and economic criteria"
said Minister Smith at today's signing ceremony. "Its purchase will
allow the Government to operate more effectively during our term in
the EU Presidency and into the future."
Growing north-south trade
The decision was also welcomed by Michael Ryan, vice president
and general manager of Bombardier's Belfast plant where fuselages
for Bombardier Learjet 45 aircraft are designed and
manufactured.
"Not only is this purchase by the Irish Government an excellent
example of north-south trade, it also encourages the efforts we
have been making to develop further the aerospace supply base
within the island," stated Mr. Ryan. When the aircraft enters
Government service it will provide an excellent opportunity to
promote Ireland's technological expertise to the world."
"The Government of Ireland's decision to select the Bombardier
Learjet 45 underlines its outstanding performance capabilities and
comfortable cabin, two attributes that have fueled its popularity
and make it particularly well suited for government and corporate
transport," stated Peter Edwards, president, Bombardier Business
Aircraft, who was present in Dublin for the event.
A total of 222 Bombardier Learjet 45 aircraft have been
delivered worldwide. Bombardier business aircraft are currently in
service with numerous governments worldwide, including Germany,
Denmark, Canada, South Korea, Japan, Switzerland, Brazil, the
United States, Australia and Malaysia.