The Bombardier 415 Amphibious Aircraft Reaches a 200,000 Flight Hour Milestone
Bombardier Aerospace announced on December 15 that the Bombardier 415 aircraft has reached an important milestone in less than 20 years life span: over 200,000 hours flown since its entry-into-service. “Given the limited amount of actual specialized flying time per year, it is quite impressive that the Bombardier 415 program has attained a remarkable rate of 200,000 flight hours during which it has dropped over five billion litres of water,” said Michel Bourgeois, President, Specialized and Amphibious Aircraft & Military Aviation Training, Bombardier Aerospace. “It is no wonder many believe that the Bombardier 415 aircraft is one of the most successful aerial firefighting aircraft programs in history,” added Mr. Bourgeois.
Including the recent order from an undisclosed customer, Bombardier has booked firm orders for a total of 84 aircraft, and to date, 76 Bombardier 415 aircraft are in service with more than 18 operators worldwide.
The production of the Bombardier 415 aircraft integrates a high level of craftsmanship and is adapted to meet the requirements of customers. A team of in-service support experts is available at all times to assist the operators.
The Bombardier 415 has a normal cruise speed of 333 km/h (180 ktas) and in an average mission of 11 kilometres (six nautical miles) distance from water to fire, it can complete nine drops within an hour, delivering 55,260 litres (14,600 U.S. gallons) of fire suppressant. The aircraft is also offered in a multi-purpose version, the Bombardier 415 MP aircraft, for search and rescue, maritime patrol and environmental protection, while maintaining its firefighting capability. Malaysia and Greece have each taken delivery of two Bombardier 415 MP aircraft for special mission roles.
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 January 31, 2011, were $17.9 billion, 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 or follow us on Twitter @Bombardier.
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