Bombardier CSeries Aircraft Closer to Flight

Bombardier Aerospace officials have announced that the first CSeries aircraft – Flight Test Vehicle 1 (FTV1) – has successfully obtained Transport Canada's Flight Test Permit, thereby clearing the way for its maiden flight, expected in the coming weeks.

 

The company press release did not indicate specifically when the flight would take place. The first flight, initially expected by the end of 2012, had been announced and delayed in June and July.

 

After its series of pre-flight tests including low-speed taxi runs, FTV1 will now proceed with high-speed taxi runs whereby the aircraft simulates speeds for flight take-off.

 

"Five years in the making and today, following receipt of Transport Canada's flight test permit, we are very close to the CSeries airliner's first flight – a historic moment for Bombardier and a game-changing moment for the industry," says Mike Arcamone, president, Bombardier Commercial Aircraft. "The CSeries aircraft teams have spent the last few weeks completing rigorous exercises to ensure the integrity and maturity of the aircraft are absolutely in check with the flight crew's requirements. Pending optimal weather, the CSeries aircraft will soon take to the skies."

 

Bombardier will provide regular updates on the first flight timing via its website dedicated to the CSeries Aircraft First Flight, where the latest news about the program and its maiden flight will be posted. On the day of first flight, the event will be broadcast live on the site.

 

Designed for the 100- to 149-seat, single-aisle market, the CSeries aircraft family uses advanced composite materials in its construction to reduce weight and new engines that are expected to be quieter and more fuel efficient.

 

As of June 30, 2013, Bombardier had booked 388 orders and commitments for CSeries aircraft that included 177 firm orders.