Canadian carrier WestJet Airlines placed a firm order for 20 Bombardier Q400 NextGen aircraft on Thursday, a deal worth about $683 million. The transaction includes options for WestJet to purchase 25 more Q400 NextGens from Bombardier, which would increase the value to $1.59 billion.
Gregg Saretsky, WestJet’s president and CEO, said the Q400 NextGen will enter into service when WestJet launches their Canadian regional airline in 2013.
“This is an exciting time for Bombardier and WestJetters alike. We’re equally keen to see how WestJet will adopt the Q400 NextGen aircraft into its unique operations and it’s a thrill to see the enthusiasm as the airline solicits feedback from the country’s regional airports and its guests,” said Mike Arcamone, president, Bombardier Commercial Aircraft. “The Q400 NextGen aircraft’s superior economics, outstanding fuel economy and excellent passenger comfort give WestJet the flexibility to service a diverse number of routes and airports. We look forward to the waiving of the order conditionality in the near future.”
