Bombardier will cease offering its current-model CRJs once the assembly line for production of its new generation series of regional jets, dubbed "CRJ NextGen" (left), is fully operational. The Canadian manufacturer last week unveiled plans to incorporate features being offered on the stretched version of its CRJ900 - the new CRJ1000 - into the smaller CRJ700 and CRJ900.
These include an all-new cabin and the increased use of composite materials, including "composite-made flaps", which will be manufactured in Belfast in the UK, says the company. CRJ customers that have signed for current-model CRJ700s and CRJ900s will continue to receive these aircraft, depending on the terms of their contracts with the manufacturer.
This is being handled on a "case-by-case basis", says Bombardier. "Some customers have signed for regular versions and some have signed for NextGen," it says. Once the assembly line for production of the CRJ NextGen is ramped up, the current models "will not be offered any more", the manufacturer adds. Northwest Airlines' regional subsidiary Mesaba is launching the CRJ900 NextGen. Its first aircraft has already been delivered, is undergoing proving runs and is expected to be displayed at the Paris air show.
Source: Flight International
