Bombardier and Government of Tanzania Sign Purchase Agreement for Two Q400 Turboprops

Bombardier Commercial Aircraft announced today that the Government of Tanzania has signed a firm purchase agreement for two Q400 turboprop airliners. The aircraft will be delivered with a 76-seat, dual-lavatory configuration and will be used for commercial airline operations in the region.

Based on the list price of the Q400 airliner, the firm order is valued at approximately US $62 million.

“Our Q400 aircraft will provide affordable, convenient and comfortable air transport solutions,” said Dr. Leonard Chamuriho, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Transport, Works and Communication, Tanzania. “We are committed to providing state-of-the-art service to our passengers and are keen to expand further as our business grows to include new destinations in Tanzania and the African region.

“Tanzania is a large country with some challenging airfields, and the Q400 turboprop’s capability to operate at these airports, its jet-like speed, long-range cruise capability and outstanding turboprop economics were key factors that guided us in selecting the aircraft for our operations,” added

Dr. Chamuriho. “The level of in-continent support that Bombardier offers is also very important for us.”

“This transaction not only solidifies the relationship between the Government of Tanzania, and Bombardier, but also reaffirms Africa as one of the most prolific Q400 aircraft markets. The Q400 aircraft is a showcase for the continent, where it has proved itself to be extremely efficient as well as cost-effective,” said Jean-Paul Boutibou, Vice President, Sales - Middle East and Africa, Bombardier Commercial Aircraft.

Bombardier’s Dash 8/Q-Series turboprops and CRJ Series regional jets have made significant advances in Africa where approximately 160 aircraft – including more than 50 Q400 turboprops -- are in service with, or ordered by, approximately 40 customers and operators.

Bombardier’s customer support network for commercial aircraft in Africa includes a Regional Support Office (RSO) and spare parts depot, co-located in Johannesburg, South Africa as well as Authorized Service Facilities in South Africa and Ethiopia. Operating from the company’s regional office located in the United Arab Emirates, Bombardier Commercial Aircraft’s sales and marketing team is well positioned to provide industry-leading solutions to its current and prospective customers.