The latest word is that the Bombardier is rather keen to get their new shiny plane in the air, with the first flight of the Bombardier CSeries CS-100 (Frame FTV-1) aiming for a first flight on Monday, subject to weather conditions
Bombardier CSeries FTV-1 lining upon for testing – Image, Bombardier via CSeries.com
The aircraft has completed nearly all the required tests it needs to ready itself for first flight, with the high speed tests all done – a precursor to clearance for first flight.
Transport Canada issued the flight certificate for the CSeries last month (30th August), so it’s been a bit of a wait for the plane to be ready for take off as ground tests are concluded.
There is more of a sense of an urgency to get the plane into the air to boost the CSeries order book and to try to take custom away from Boeing and Airbus, with Bombardier estimating an entry into service 12 months after the first flight – which could be ambitious if there are issues discovered along the way…
The CSeries will be offered in two configurations – CS100 (capable of holding 110 passengers) and the CS300 (holding 135 passengers)
Those of you who love first flights might want to head to to www.cseriesfirstflight.bombardier.com to keep a watch when the first aircraft takes to the air…