Luxembourg Airline Orders Four NextGen Turboprop Airliners

A firm order for four Q400 NextGen high-speed turboprop airliners, which was announced on August 16, 2011, was placed by Luxair, the national airline of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, Bombardier confirmed Thursday. The transaction also included options on an additional four Q400 NextGen aircraft. As previously announced, based on the Q400 NextGen aircraft list price, the firm order contract is valued at approximately $126 million.

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Luxair placed a firm order for three Q400 airliners in 2006, prior to the product enhancements that earned the "NextGen" designation. It placed subsequent orders for two additional Q400 turboprop aircraft.

"We are continuing to upgrade our turboprop fleet with Q400 NextGen aircraft," said Adrien Ney, President and Chief Executive Officer, Luxair. "The Q400 turboprop is a superb aircraft, and the NextGen treatment has lowered operating costs and made a real difference in enhancing passenger convenience and overall comfort."

"The technologically advanced Q400 NextGen aircraft's size, speed, economics and comfort, along with its fuel efficiency and other environmental credentials, position it as a strong alternative to a jet on many short- to medium-haul routes in the 70- to 80-seat segment," said Chet Fuller, Senior Vice President, Sales, Marketing and Asset Management, Bombardier Commercial Aircraft.

Bombardier has recorded firm orders for 412 Q400/Q400 NextGen aircraft, with 368 delivered as of July 31, 2011.

FMI: www.bombardier.com