Bombardier CSeries Jet Completes First Flight

The Bombardier Aerospace CSeries aircraft has made its long-anticipated first flight, a milestone in the company’s development program for a new family of aircraft specifically designed for the 100- to 149-seat market segment. The maiden flight marks the start of the CSeries aircraft’s flight test program leading up to the first customer delivery, and was also the first flight for Pratt & Whitney’s new geared turbofan PurePower engine as part of an aircraft certification program.

 

The flight of CSeries flight test vehicle one (FTV1) – a CS100 jetliner bearing Canadian registration markings C-FBCS – was conducted under the command of Captain Charles (Chuck) Ellis, chief flight test pilot, Bombardier Flight Test Center. Capt. Ellis was assisted by his colleagues, Capt. Andris (Andy) Litavniks, first officer, and Andreas Hartono, flight test engineer. The flight departed from Montréal–Mirabel International Airport at approximately 9:55 a.m. EDT and returned at approximately 12:25 p.m. EDT Sept. 16, 2013.

 

“The performance of the CSeries aircraft was very impressive! We couldn’t have wished for a better maiden flight,” Ellis remarked afterward. “FTV1’s state-of-the-art flight deck was responsive and comfortable, and the aircraft handled exactly as expected. Overall, we had a very productive first flight and an excellent start to the flight test program.”

 

“This is a very proud day for Bombardier and a true validation of the CSeries aircraft’s design and development, and of our extensive ground test program,” said Rob Dewar, vice president and general manager, CSeries program, Bombardier Commercial Aircraft. “Five years in the making, the CSeries aircraft’s first flight is the culmination of an incredible amount of hard work and dedication from our employees, partners, and suppliers around the world.

 

“During its maiden flight, CSeries FTV1 reached an altitude of 12,500ft (3,810m) and an air speed of 230kts (426km/h). In-flight tests included flap and landing gear retractions and extensions; in-flight maneuvers that included a simulated landing; and early validation of the flight control system. Additionally, we’re also delighted that many of our guests commented on the impressive and quiet performance during takeoff and landing,” Dewar stated.

 

“On behalf of Bombardier’s leadership team, I extend my gratitude to everyone who was involved in making this flight such a great success,” said Mike Arcamone, president, Bombardier Commercial Aircraft. 

 

The first CSeries aircraft was greeted by more than 3,000 Bombardier employees and Board members, customers, partners and suppliers, upon its return to the company’s Mirabel, Québec facility, where the final assembly line for the CSeries aircraft program is now under construction.

 

A total of five CS100 flight test vehicles, all of which are currently in various stages of assembly, will join the flight test program in the coming months.

 

Bombardier has booked orders and commitments for 388 CSeries aircraft, which include firm orders for 177 CSeries airliners.