Bombardier and Nok Air showcase the carrier’s 86-seat Q400 NextGen aircraft

Bombardier Commercial Aircraft and Thailand’s premium low cost airline, Nok Air, showcased the carrier’s second Q400 NextGen turboprop Sept. 30 at Bombardier’s facility in Toronto, Ont. The extra capacity aircraft, the only commercial turboprop capable of comfortably accommodating 86 passengers, will join Nok Air’s fleet as part of a purchase agreement for up to eight Q400 NextGen airliners, six of which are firm.

During a celebratory event surrounding the colorfully-painted Q400 NextGen turboprop and opened with a cheerful dance performance, Bombardier executives and employees hosted Nok Air representatives as well as local and Thai media.

“While our 86-seat Q400 NextGen turboprops are positioning us to offer increased capacity on already popular routes, they will also allow us to grow into new destinations while increasing our profitability,” said Patee Sarasin, chief executive, Nok Air. “We are eager for the Q400 NextGen aircraft to enter service and to offer our passengers an improved, more comfortable cabin environment.”

“As it makes regional air service more convenient and accessible to travelers in South East Asia, Nok Air will certainly showcase beautifully the flexibility and productivity of the extra capacity Q400 NextGen turboprop – always with the fun and friendly hospitality for which Thais, and particularly Nok Air, are known,” said Frank Baistrocchi, regional vice president, sales, Asia-Pacific, Bombardier Commercial Aircraft. “We are confident that the aircraft’s unbeatably low seat-mile costs and superior performance will be key assets to Nok Air’s bold growth strategy and we couldn’t be prouder to be associated with such a forward-thinking airline.”

“We again extend our appreciation to Nok Air for introducing the Q400 NextGen airliner to the region and launching the 86-seat version, and we look forward to a long future of strong friendship and collaboration,” he added.