Korean Air Includes 30 Bombardier CSeries aircrafts in its fleet

Korean Air said that it has decided to acquire 30 Bombardier CSeries aircrafts, and has signed an agreement with the leading aircraftmaker Bombardier Aerospace. The announcement was made during the recently-concluded Paris Air Show.

The airline said that after several months of negotiations it has finally signed a Letter of Intent with the aircraftmaker and outlined that it will be acquiring 10 Bombardier CS300 aircrafts with an additional 10 options and 10 purchase rights on CS300 airliners.

Gary R. Scott, President of Bombardier Commercial Aircraft, said that it is a matter of great happiness and a proud moment for the company that Korean Air, being one of the world’s most prestigious airlines, has chosen to buy CSeries aircrafts to fulfill its route expansion plans. He said that the airline is the first CSeries aircraft customer in Asia. At the same time, it also indicates that fast reach of Bombardier into the rapidly growing Asia-Pacific market.

Scott said, “Our list of customers continues to grow and now covers the Asian, North American and European markets. This is, in fact, a testament to the high value and operating flexibility of the CSeries aircraft program.”

The Bombardier CSeries aircrafts have been designed for the growing 100 to 149-seat market. The CSeries family of aircraft combines leading-edge technology, proven methods and advanced materials for meeting the commercial airline requirements in 2013 and beyond. The CS300 aircrafts would be entering into service in 2014.

The CSeries aircraft family is powered by Pratt & Whitney PW1521G engines. The CSeries aircrafts have several features and advantages. A 20 percent fuel burn advantage and the 15 percent cash operating cost advantage are among its prominent features. Its other advantages include exceptional airfield performance, superior operational flexibility, greatly reduced noise and emissions, and a range of 2,950 nm (5,463 km). Besides, the passengers in this single-aisle aircraft will be provided with three-plus-two, widebody-style seating.