Century Aerospace, which is developing the CA-100 entry-level business jet, is to relocate to Alliance Airport in Fort Worth, Texas, from its base in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
The company says the Fort Worth location offers access to a pool of experienced aerospace employees. Bell Agusta and Galaxy Aerospace are already at Alliance, alongside an American Airlines maintenance centre. It is close to the US Federal Aviation Administration office responsible for certification of the CA-100 twinjet.
Century started in Columbus, Ohio, and moved to Albuquerque two years ago on the promise of state and local financing support "which was never really finalised", says Don Coburn, director of sales and marketing.
The company, meanwhile, expects to name a second major risk-sharing partner in the CA-100 programme next month. The unidentified "major aerospace company" will supply all metal parts for the aircraft, says Coburn. SGL Carbon/Hitco has been selected as a risk-sharing partner to supply the composite fuselage.
First flight is due in the third quarter of 2001, with certification and first deliveries in 2003.
Source: Flight International
