By Oliver Johnson | May 1, 2012 Estimated reading time 3 minutes, 2 seconds.
WestJet has picked the Bombardier Q400 NextGen to fly its new regional airline, agreeing a deal with the Montreal-based manufacturer for up to 45 of the turboprop aircraft.
The 78-seat Q400, the same aircraft used by Toronto-based Porter Airlines, was selected by WestJet over the French-Italian ATR 72-600 turboprop.
Both teams went above and beyond our expectation with regard to the high quality of analysis and data they provided, said Gregg Saretsky, WestJet president and CEO. Both manufacturers truly understood WestJet business needs and requests and worked diligently to explain how their aircraft best met these needs.
The Q400 and the ATR 72 600 series are both great aircraft, however, at the end of the day, the combination of range, speed and seat density of the Q400 made it the best choice for us given the extended distances between our hubs and the smaller communities we will be serving.
“This is a very proud day for Bombardier,” said Mike Arcamone, president of Bombardier Commercial Aircraft. “We are thrilled that WestJet has selected the Q400 NextGen aircraft for its fleet expansion requirements. Our new-generation turboprop aircraft fits perfectly into this iconic Canadian airline’s brand and we are pleased to welcome WestJetters and their guests to our Bombardier family.”
The Q400 NextGen aircraft features an enhanced cabin environment with the introduction of LED lighting, new ceiling panels, dished window sidewalls and larger overhead luggage bins. Bombardier said these features, combined with the aircraft’s Active Noise and Vibration Suppression (ANVS) system, were designed to provide passengers with an excellent cabin experience.
The cost of the aircraft has not been disclosed, but Saretsky said he was very pleased with the deal the companies reached, which includes 20 Q400s with the option to purchase a further 25.
While the details of the communities to be served by the new airline won’t be revealed until late 2012/early 2013, Saretsky said three distinct types of routes would be included: services to new destinations, services linking existing destinations, and schedule improvement on routes where the Q400 can efficiently provide greater frequency.
Bombardier said the Q400 uses 30 to 40 per cent less fuel and produces 30 to 40 per cent fewer emissions on routes where it has replaced similar-capacity, older jets.
Saretsky said the idea of reaching new communities had already caused excitement amongst those hoping to be included. We’re seeing great interest across the country from places like Penticton and Brandon, who have even posted videos on Youtube telling us why we should not forget their communities.
