News
Bombardier progressing towards CSeries maiden flight
March 26, 2013, Mirabel, Que. - Bombardier says it is progressing towards the maiden flight of its new CSeries commercial airplane after fully powering up the main electrical systems for the first time on the initial test aircraft.
March 26, 2013 By The Canadian Press
The Montreal-based aircraft manufacturer also said Monday it has completed two crucial wing tests on its grounded test aircraft ahead of the commercial plane's first flight, expected by the end of June.
CSeries general manager Rob Dewar said the powering of the main electrical distribution system will now allow it to power all subsystems and for avionics suite testing.
Bombardier also said it completed up and down bend testing of the aircraft's wings in March that applied intense pressure on the Belfast-made wings. These are the two most significant wing tests required for a first flight.
The company said safety-of-flight tests are progressing well on the integrated systems test rig for the 100- to 160-seat aircraft.
Dewar said Bombardier is very satisfied with the progress and weekly achievements as the various testing requirements are advancing according to schedule.
The plane promises to save 15 per cent cash operating costs and offer 20 per cent lower fuel consumption than rival aircraft of the same size.
Bombardier has received orders and commitments for 382 CSeries aircraft, including 148 firm orders.
