SAAB AIRCRAFT IS looking to raise output rates on the 340B regional turboprop to four a month following American (AMR) Eagle's firm order for 25 aircraft.
The rise in 340 production, together with the build-up of Saab 2000 deliveries, would put the manufacturer on course to achieve its break-even target of 50 aircraft a year.
Saab president Hans Kruger says that output for 1995 is expected to total 30-40 aircraft, but could rise to twice that figure in 1996 as rates on the 2000 grow from two a month to three or four.
Deliveries of the 25 aircraft for AMR will start towards the end of the year, running through to mid-1996. Robert Martens, AMR Eagle president, confirms that he is also "hopeful" of concluding discussions over firm orders for the Saab 2000.
A deal for 15, is expected to be concluded, in the next few weeks. Express Airlines I has also ordered ten 340B Plus (Flight International, 14-20 June).
Source: Flight International
