Q Why are you studying a 90-seater and not a 30-seater?
A We looked at the market for a 30- to 40-seater and decided we could not make such an aircraft economically. We have a turboprop at that end of the market which is far more economical to operate than a regional jet. But we do see a market for a 90-seater. Our existing customers are telling us they want such an aircraft. The question is, can we make it economically? That is what we will find out over the next year.
Q Bombardier has a lot of projects under way. Can you cope with another one?
A All of our programmes are at different stages. The Canadair Regional Jet is now very successful. We have begun delivering the Learjet 45 and the Global Express is certificated and will enter service early next year. The Dash 8-400 is in certification testing and we have begun cutting metal for the CRJ-700. The 90-seater will not be launched for a year, by which time the -400 will be in service and the -700 will be in certification testing. We have the engineering resources to handle this programme. Those resources are our greatest asset and we must use them.
Q Even if you are still planning to launch a new midsize business jet?
A We hope to be able to launch the NMBJ later this year. This programme will be slightly ahead of the 90-seater, so they will not overlap completely. We will have partners on both programmes to share the development cost and risk. We plan to get these partners on board much earlier than we have done on our previous programmes, so we can take full advantage of their experience to make sure we can reduce the cost of both these aircraft as much as possible.
Q With the 90-seater, you are moving into Airbus and Boeing territory. Does this concern you?
A The key to this aircraft will be making sure it can be produced and operated economically. Aircraft such as the A318 and 717 are more expensive to build and operate than a purpose-design regional jet. Yes, we have seen some low prices on these aircraft, but I think that both Airbus and Boeing are beginning to raise their prices. That will make it easier for us. But if, over the next year, we find out that we can't make the 90-seater economically viable, then we won't proceed.
Q Are you having trouble finding potential partners?
A Absolutely not. It is they who are coming to us. It's then a question of picking the very best partners for each programme. Despite the economic downturn in Asia, the industry there is still very keen to work with us.
Bombardier's Laurent Beaudoin says he will not go ahead with a 90-seat regional jet unless it proves economically viable
Source: Flight Daily News
