Bombardier have announced that its Q400 Series Turboprop has gained additional certification to operate in a 90 seater configuration
Bombardier Q400 in house colours – Image, Bombardier
The launch customer of this version of the Bombardier Q400 will be SpiceJet – who have partnered with Expliseat for the on-board seating for its 90 seat configuration.
Expliseat for Bombardier Q400 – Image, Economy Class and Beyond.
Certification was granted by Transport Canada for the Q400, which will make it the first turboprop able to carry 90 passengers aboard.
On the certification, Todd Young, Head of the Q Series Aircraft Program, Bombardier Commercial Aircraft. stated:
“With increasing growth in the number of passengers per departure in the turboprop market, we are excited to offer our customers a higher-capacity configuration and 15 percent lower cost per seat compared to the previous standard Q400, leading to more profitability potential for airlines,”
“This milestone certification showcases — once again — the unique versatility of the Q400 turboprop and our continued commitment to the evolution of the program.
The Bombardier Q400 is a popular aircraft for regional operator (such as FlyBe), as well as those who want build feeder traffic (as in the case of SpiceJet).
As well as the 90 seat improvement, there are also improvements in development to increase the payload capacity by 2000lb, and the development of longer check intervals.
The Q400 is a versatile plane, and I’ve logged my fair share of segments with FlyBe and Austrian Airlines.
With 90 people aboard though – be prepared to make a few new friends….
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Like that in YYJ and other airports AIR CANADA does quicker load and unload using both front and back doors.
FlyBe also does this at some locations. It’s a great way to speed up the boarding/disembarkation process.
And if they’re going to cram 90 people aboard an Q400, it’s going to be needed to meet turnaround times.
The trick of course is persuading the ground handlers to follow the dual doors procedure. There-in lies the fun.