Air Berlin Signs For 10 Turboprops

Bombardier Aerospace confirmed Wednesday a firm order from a European airline for 10 Q400 turboprop aircraft plus 10 options, announced on October 23, 2007, was placed by Air Berlin PLC of Berlin, Germany. The airline had requested to remain unidentified at the time of the announcement.

Based on the list price for the Q400 aircraft, the value of the firm order contract is approximately $267 million US. If all options are exercised, the contract value could rise to approximately $540 million US.

Founded in 1978, Air Berlin has grown to become Germany's second-largest airline with a fleet of 124 jets. The Q400 will be the airline's first turboprop aircraft and will be configured with 76 passenger seats.

The third-largest low-cost carrier (LCC) in Europe, Air Berlin serves more than 100 destinations worldwide. The airline operates flights to major cities in Europe, North America and Asia as well as to many popular holiday resorts. It also offers domestic flights in Germany.

"We will be deploying our Q400 aircraft on routes that do not require the seating capacity of our jet aircraft," said Joachim Hunold, Chief Executive Officer, Air Berlin. "The Q400 aircraft offers the combination of passenger capacity and comfort, speed, economy of operation and environmental compatibility that we require."

"The selection of the Q400 aircraft by Air Berlin, a leading-edge and profitable LCC, is recognition of the significant cost benefit this aircraft brings to LCCs," said Steven Ridolfi, President, Bombardier Regional Aircraft. "The Q400 offers outstanding performance and economics."

FMI: www.bombardier.com, www.airberlin.com