Complements Exclusive Nine-Year Heavy Maintenance Agreement Signed Earlier This Year

Indianapolis-based Republic Airlines has enrolled 32 Q400 aircraft in Bombardier's Smart Parts cost protection program. The move firms up the agreement in principle announced earlier this year in conjunction with an exclusive maintenance contract for the same aircraft with work performed at Bombardier’s Macon, GA, and Tucson, AZ, service centers.

The long-term Q400 Smart Parts agreement with Republic is customized for inventory management and expedient access to parts for its Q400 aircraft fleet. “Bombardier is pleased to have Republic’s vote of confidence in the Q400 Smart Parts program”, said Éric Martel, President, Bombardier Customer Services & Specialized and Amphibious Aircraft. “Regional carriers like Republic recognize the role Bombardier can play in ensuring the highest reliability and lowest life cycle costs for their fleet of turboprops, creating a win-win situation for both the airline and its customers”.

“The proven track record of the Q400 Smart Parts program offers Republic improved cost predictability and component availability,” said Lars-Erik Arnell, Senior Vice President, Corporate Development, Republic Airways when announcing the new affiliation. “We look forward to fully realizing the benefits of this program for our operations.”

Bombardier introduced the Smart Parts program for its Q400 aircraft in March 2008. “The ... program provides a variety of options to help airlines manage both operational and parts maintenance costs,” said Gary Martin, Vice President, Sales, Marketing and Service Programs, Customer Services, Bombardier Aerospace. “This flexibility and range have fueled interest in the program, and enrollment has quadrupled in the past year.”

Q400 aircraft operators including India’s SpiceJet, Eurolot of Poland, Luxembourg’s Luxair, Canada’s Jazz Aviation, Japan Air Commuter and the Department of Justice of the U.S. have selected the popular Q400 Smart Parts program for optimal maintenance and support solutions.

FMI: www.bombardier.com