CITYFLYER EXPRESS has placed firm orders for two AI(R) Avro RJ100s, plus options on a further two aircraft, for delivery in 1997. It is understood that the aircraft are being leased, but the airline, which operates as a British Airways Express carrier, declines to comment on how the deal is to be financed.
The two-class, 102-seat, RJ100s will be used to expand capacity on existing services and develop new routes, according to CityFlyer's managing director, Brad Burgess.
The airline hopes to continue operating its existing seven 48-seat AI(R) ATR 42s and four 66-seat AI(R) ATR 72s after the RJ100s are delivered in March and April 1997, although this may be compromised by a lack of slots at its London Gatwick Airport base, says Burgess.
CityFlyer has the option to return some turboprops to the lessor in 1997.
Source: Flight International
