Bombardier is in early-stage talks with Russian airframer Aviacor over partnership opportunities.

"Yes, we're having discussions with them, as well as many other entities in those geostrategic markets," says the Canadian manufacturer.

Canada's Financial Post has reported that Bombardier is in preliminary talks with Aviacor to consider the feasibility of building aircraft in Russia. The newspaper quoted Aviacor chairman Igor Garivadskiy as saying: "We're looking at a whole range of possible ways to cooperate with Bombardier."

The main scope of Samara-based Aviacor's factory involves construction, maintenance and supply of spare parts for the Antonov An-140 regional airliner and Tupolev Tu-154 trijet.

Bombardier in June signed a long-term strategic tie-up with China Aviation Industry Corporation (AVIC I) under which it is to invest $100 million in the latter's ARJ21-900 project and provide technical assistance in developing the regional jet.

The company, in its normal course of business, "continues to hold exploratory discussions with several entities located around the world to address various business opportunities", says Bombardier in a statement.

"As overall demand for aircraft in the business and commercial aircraft segments, in which Bombardier competes remains strong, Bombardier will continue to develop long-standing relationships with both suppliers and customers in various markets."




Source: Flight International