Embraer delivered China Southern Airlines' first Embraer E-190 regional jet to China's CDB Leasing Co (CLC).
This is part of a deal for 20 E-190s ordered by CLC for China Southern, which will base the first aircraft in China's Xinjiang province. The aircraft will be operated by its subsidiary, China Southern Air Holding Xinjiang.
Seven E-190s are expected to be delivered by end-2011, all to be based in Xinjiang's capital Urumqi, said Embraer.
This is in line with the Chinese government's aim to establish the city as a hub for western China.
"The rapid development of the Xinjiang regional economy requires its air transport industry to enter a new phase," added the Brazilian airframer.
"These aircraft will assist the operator to build a hub and spoke network with convenient, high-frequency schedules."
Source: Air Transport Intelligence news
