Certifications Follow The Completion Of Steep Approach Demonstration Flights At London City Airport In March

Bombardier Commercial Aircraft announced today that Transport Canada and the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) awarded the CS100 aircraft its steep approach certifications. The CS100 aircraft's capability to operate at challenging airports such as London City (LCY) Airport was validated by Bombardier's comprehensive flight test program. Swiss International Air Lines (SWISS) will be the first airline to operate the C Series at LCY Airport.

"The CS100 aircraft steep approach certification process went smoothly as the C Series is the only commercial aircraft specifically designed for operations at challenging airports," said Rob Dewar, Vice President, C Series Aircraft Program, Bombardier Commercial Aircraft. "The C Series has unparalleled capabilities no other aircraft in its category has - it will offer new possibilities for airlines wishing to operate at challenging airports around the world. The CS100 will also double the range that can be flown viably from LCY, opening new routes for airlines and passengers."

"The latest technology in aural and head-up display systems on-board the CS100 aircraft is used by the crew during the approach and landing phases of flight," added François Caza, Vice President, Product Development and Chief Engineer, Bombardier. "To be certified for operations at LCY, we had to show that the aircraft could perform at a greater approach angle, take-off and land on the airport's short runway and meet the local noise requirements. Our crew successfully demonstrated as expected, the CS100 aircraft's capability and maneuverability. The aircraft now joins our Q400 turboprop aircraft, as well as our Challenger 650, Global 5000 and Global 6000 business jets which already access this challenging airport regularly."

"The C Series is a game-changer for the only London airport actually in London, and it's fantastic news that one of the quietest and most fuel efficient commercial jets in its class has been granted regulatory approval. Bombardier's next generation aircraft will unlock new routes which passengers, both business and leisure, will benefit from, with opportunities for non-stop services to destinations including the east coast of the USA, Russia, West Africa and the Middle East," said Declan Collier, CEO of London City Airport. "Following the airport's planned £350 million expansion project we hope the C Series will become a familiar sight at London City Airport and I look forward to welcoming the maiden SWISS C Series flight later in 2017."

Successful validation flights at LCY Airport a few weeks ago, followed by a landmark direct flight from LCY to John F. Kennedy Airport demonstrated the CS100 aircraft's exceptional capabilities. This first direct transatlantic flight by a commercial aircraft from LCY Airport confirms the C Series' superior airfield performance and unparalleled flying autonomy from a short runway.

(Images provided with Bombardier news release)

FMI: www.bombardier.com