Bombardier has informed its employees that it will discontinue the production of its 37-seat Q200 aircraft and its 50-seat Q300 aircraft from May 2009 onwards, according to Flight's premium news source Commercial Aviation Online.
In a document sent by Bombardier Regional Aircraft’s President Steve Ridolfi to all Bombardier’s employees, the manufacturer explains the decision is in line with current market demand for larger turboprop aircraft.
“Due to a shift in demand towards larger turboprops, Bombardier Aerospace has increased the production rate of its 78-seat Q400 aircraft and will discontinue the production of its 37-seat Q200 aircraft and its 50-seat Q300 aircraft,” says Ridolfi.
“Deliveries of existing Q200 and Q300 firm orders will continue until May 2009 when all outstanding delivery commitments will be satisfied,” he adds.
Bombardier Q200/300 planned deliveries
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According to Flight's ACAS database, there are an estimated 21 Q200s and Q300s on backlog. Nine aircraft are expected to be delivered this year, 10 in 2009 and the remaining two are scheduled for 2010.
“As with programs we have retired in the past, we will continue to support all Q200 and Q300 operators through our worldwide network of spare parts depots, highly skilled Field Service Representatives and customer support offices.
"The demand for Bombardier Toronto site products including our Q400 turboprop, Learjet 45 XR wing and global business jet remains strong and is increasing. We will evaluate all of our options and opportunities to mitigate any potential layoffs,” comments Ridolfi in the memo to employees.
Source: ACAS
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Source: FlightGlobal.com
