Bombardier Aerospace Assumes Complete Structural Development and
Manufacturing of Learjet 85 Business Jet
- Learjet terminates development agreement with Grob Aerospace
- Confirms commitment to the Learjet 85 program and schedule
MONTREAL, QUEBEC--(Marketwire - September 18, 2008) - Bombardier
Aerospace today announced it is assuming complete responsibility for
the detail design and manufacturing of all primary and secondary
structures for the all-new Bombardier Learjet 85 midsize business
jet. Learjet has terminated its development agreement with Grob
Aerospace AG of Switzerland.
"Given the uncertainty surrounding Grob's insolvency, Learjet has
decided to terminate its agreement with Grob Aerospace, effective
Sept. 17, 2008. Bombardier Aerospace is taking decisive action and
this decision reflects our strong commitment to both the Learjet 85
aircraft program and to a growing number of leading business jet
customers worldwide who have selected this exciting, all-new midsize
business jet," stated Steve Ridolfi, President, Bombardier Business
Aircraft.
"Development of the Learjet 85 aircraft is now in the final stages of
a successful joint definition phase that actively involves our
suppliers. Bombardier Aerospace is a leader in civil aircraft
development and has successfully intoduced a total of 24 aircraft
programs since 1989 - we are excited about the Learjet 85 business
jet and look forward to introducing the aircraft into service," added
Mr. Ridolfi.
The new Learjet 85 business aircraft- redefining the midsize business
jet class
Designed to provide a larger, more comfortable cabin than any
existing midsize aircraft, the Learjet 85 business jet will offer
eight passengers a stand-up cabin built to ensure superior
productivity and comfort. True to its legendary heritage, the Learjet
85 aircraft is set to deliver the extraordinary performance, superior
technology and exceptional value Learjet aircraft owners expect.
Powered by Pratt & Whitney Canada PW307B engines, the aircraft
engines each boast 6,100 lb. (2,772 kg) of take-off thrust, while the
low-emission combuster offers reduced environmental impact. The
clean-sheet Learjet 85 aircraft targets a high-speed cruise of Mach
0.82 and a transcontinental range of up to 3,000 nautical miles
(5,556 km)(i).
The new Learjet 85 aircraft flight deck combines advanced technology
with superior design elements for a cockpit environment unlike any
other midsize jet. The latest in technological advancements from
Rockwell Collins - the new Pro Line Fusion avionics suite - is once
again paired with superior design aesthetics to create the ultimate
Learjet flight control environment.
Learjet is the first name in corporate aviation. Since acquiring
Learjet Inc. in 1990, Bombardier Aerospace has carried forward the
brand's proud legacy by launching eight high-performance and
fuel-efficient aircraft.
About Bombardier
A world-leading manufacturer of innovative transportation solutions,
from commercial aircraft and business jets to rail transportation
equipment, systems and services, Bombardier Inc. is a global
corporation headquartered in Canada. Its revenues for the fiscal year
ended Jan. 31, 2008, were $17.5 billion US, and its shares are traded
on the Toronto Stock Exchange (BBD). Bombardier is listed as an index
component to the Dow Jones Sustainability World and North America
indexes. News and information are available at www.bombardier.com.
(i) Under certain operating conditions
Bombardier and Learjet 85 are trademarks of Bombardier Inc. or its
subsidiaries.
Contacts:
Bombardier Business Aircraft
Danielle Boudreau
514-855-8149
www.bombardier.com