ALAN PEAFORD
Bombardier is remaining tight-lipped about plans to develop a new version of its "heritage" Learjet 31A. Market softness in the first quarter and a number of new competitors has led the Canadian manufacturer to look closely at the last of the old-style Learjet aircraft. "We have reduced the production rate on the 31 but we still have a good backlog," says Michael Graff, President of Bombardier Aerospace, adding: "We are always looking at our products."
Another product under close review is the Challenger. Bombardier will be dropping hints this week about a new version of the aircraft that will probably be unveiled at NBAA in New Orleans in September. "The Challenger is the most wonderful aircraft," says Graff. "We delivered the 500th aircraft last year, it has done far better than anyone ever expected and it is popular with customers. "The 604 had a tremendous amount of improvements over previous models but we are taking this opportunity to review the aircraft and are talking to our customers."
With the first flight of the Continental due any day and ongoing sales of Global Express, Bombardier is bullish about its leadership in the business aviation market place.
Interest
The entry of airlines into the fractional market is also being watched with interest by the Bombardier business aircraft team and other manufacturers. At least two business jet makers - believed to be Dassault Falcon Jet and Gulfstream Aerospace - are in the running for orders from United Airlines as the airline sets up a new fractional ownership company. United has signed two letters of intent to build up a mixed fleet of some 200 business jets within five years. Gulfstream's Jim Holcombe, senior vice-president marketing, says United's entrance into the fractional fray is "an interesting development for corporate aircraft. We're happy about any development that expands the market." That's a view endorsed by Graff. "We see it as good for the industry. It shows a major airline recognises that fractional ownership is sustainable and sensible investment." Flexjet, Bombardier's own fractional programme, has slowed its growth this year but Graff says it has done so in line with the market. "The change in the economic situation, particularly in North America, has an impact on the market. We are still growing the business but not as quickly as we were last year. We are holding our market share." All manufacturers will hope that Paris will kick-start the corporate market. "Europe has been doing well and it is still a very fresh market," Graff says. "We hope Paris will give people the chance to look at the aircraft and make the decisions. "We are very confident about our aircraft and our performance. We are expecting a great show."
Source: Flight Daily News
