RwandAir makes crucial decision, places firm order for Airliner worth US$33m

The fast growing Rwanda has made another step due to an agreement signed between Bombardier Aerospace and RwandAir, as it was confirmed today that RwandAir has placed a firm purchase for one Q400 NextGen turboprop airliner worth US$33million

RwandAir will become 12^th operator of Q400 aircraft in Africa, a progress that has come in favor of the world’s renowned economists who praise Rwanda for the fast development being made.

According to the RwandAir Chief Executive Officer John Mirenge, the order will serve the increasing demand for domestic and regional travel in Africa. “our 67-seat, dual-class Q400 NextGen aircraft will ensure RwandAir is well positioned to offer increased capacity on popular routes that are being opened and serviced with our 37-seat Bombardier Dash 8-200 aircraft,” said Mirenge.

The Q400 NextGen turboprop has been remarked as the right aircraft for the domestic and regional market development and that it is expected to firmly support RwandAir on the path towards growth and increased profitability.

“We are also complementing our new dual-class Bombardier CRJ900 NextGen regional jets by offering similar cabin amenities on the Q400 NextGen aircraft, providing for a seamless passenger service between the two aircraft models and aligning our total fleet strategy towards a unified passenger experience. We are developing the RwandAir brand and we are gaining momentum in the region through selection of the right aircraft and right services for our growing market.” Argued officials

While commenting on the business agreement, the President of Bombardier Commercial Aircraft Mike Arcamone commended RwandAir especially on the growth of its services. “As one of our newest and fast-growing customers, RwandAir is serving Africa’s expanding domestic and international markets and we are delighted that the carrier has yet again chosen Bombardier aircraft to further develop its network of short- and medium-haul destinations.” He said

Mike Arcomone added that the Q400 NextGen turboprop has proven its capability and flexibility in many regions of the world and is operating in diverse environments, stating that it is anticipated to serve RwandAir and its customers very well.

RwandAir will become the 12^th operator of Q400 and Q400 NextGen aircraft in Africa, and its Q400 NextGen aircraft will join more than 40 Q400 and Q400 NextGen aircraft that are already in service with, or have been ordered by, 11 operators in nine countries in Africa.

With the transaction announced today, Bombardier which is headquartered in Montréal, Canada and listed on the Dow Jones Sustainability World and North America Indexes has taken firm orders for 468 Q400 and Q400 NextGen aircraft.

Worldwide, Q400 and Q400 NextGen aircraft have transported more than 243 million passengers and have logged over 3.8 million flight hours and more than 4.1 million take-offs and landings in service with more than 40 operators in over 30 countries on five continents.