The Bombardier CSeries today has another feather in its hat – the ability to operate to and from London City Airport.
Bombardier CSeries FTV-2 taking off from London City Airport – Image, Bombardier
Earlier this year, Bombardier brought its CSeries CS100 jet to the United Kingdom for testing at London City Airport so it can be tested against the Transport Canada and EASA (European Aviation Safety Agency) steep approach certifications.
This certification was tested and validated at London City Airport, and the certification has been awarded to the manufacturer.
This clears the way for SWISS to operate the CSeries out of London City Airport (the first operator of the CSeries and a CS100 and CS300 customer).
Rob Dewar, Vice President, C Series Aircraft Program, Bombardier Commercial Aircraft states
“The CS100 aircraft steep approach certification process went smoothly as the C Series is the only commercial aircraft specifically designed for operations at challenging airportsThe C Series has unparalleled capabilities no other aircraft in its category has – it will offer new possibilities for airlines wishing to operate at challenging airports around the world. The CS100 will also double the range that can be flown viably from LCY, opening new routes for airlines and passengers.”
London City Airport are excited too with Declan Collier, CEO, stating;
“The C Series is a game-changer for the only London airport actually in London, and it’s fantastic news that one of the quietest and most fuel efficient commercial jets in its class has been granted regulatory approval. Bombardier’s next generation aircraft will unlock new routes which passengers, both business and leisure, will benefit from, with opportunities for non-stop services to destinations including the east coast of the USA, Russia, West Africa and the Middle East
Following the airport’s planned £350 million expansion project we hope the C Series will become a familiar sight at London City Airport and I look forward to welcoming the maiden SWISS C Series flight later in 2017.”
As well as carrying out the validation flights at London City Airport, Bombardier carried out a flight from London City Airport to New York JFK non-stop – to demonstrate the abilities of the CSeries (and at the same time, lay down the challenge to the Airbus A318s which ply that route). Considering the short runway at London City Airport – a mere 1,500 meters – that’s pretty amazing.
For now, we have the CS100 coming to London City Airport in the near future.
This will be one to watch – with other airlines I would suspect keeping an eye on how the CSeries performs out of the airport, and if its viable for some other operations.
And hopefully – a few orders in the Bombardier order book.
Welcome to Economy Class and Beyond – Your no-nonsense guide to network news, honest reviews, with in-depth coverage, unique research as well as the humour and madness as I only know how to deliver.
Follow me on Twitter at @EconomyBeyond for the latest updates! You can also follow me on Instagram too!
Also remember that as well as being part of BoardingArea, we’re also part of BoardingArea.eu, delivering frequent flyer news, miles and points to European readers.
