Bombardier woos Delta order

Rumours circulated in the industry this week that Delta Air Lines is about to order more than 100 Bombardier C Series aircraft as it moves to modernise part of its fleet by replacing up to 116 McDonnell Douglas MD88s.

At stake are said to be firm orders for 75 aircraft and options for another 50. Airbus, Boeing and Embraer are also chasing the business.

The story surfaced in the Seattle Times, published in Boeing’s home town, as well as the Wall Street Journal and Montreal Gazette. The WSJ said Delta was due to make a final decision by the end of this month.

Bombardier said the company did not comment on speculation "nor on the potential discussions we may or may not be having with specific customers".

A statement added: "Bombardier Commercial Aircraft will announce material agreements if or when any are finalised," they added.

A deal involving the number of aircraft quoted would make Delta by far the largest customer for the C Series, the wings for which are made at Bombardier’s factory in Belfast.

The largest firm order so far has been from US carrier Republic Airways for 40 aircraft.  www.bombardier.com   www.delta.com

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