Japan's RAC unveiled as Bombardier Q400 cargo-combi variant launch customer
RAC, which is a part of the Japan Airlines Group, is also the launch customer of the Q400 cargo-combi variant announced at the Farnborough Airshow in July 2014. All five aircraft ordered by RAC will be delivered in combi configuration.
As previously announced by Bombardier, based on the list price for the Q400 aircraft, the transaction is valued at approximately $168 million.
“Ryukyu Air Commuter shares a long history with Bombardier, collaborating together since 1997 when we first introduced Japan to the Dash 8 Series 100 aircraft. Since then, the Dash 8 Series 100 aircraft has become the backbone of our efficient and productive operation,” said Takashi Irei, President, Ryukyu Air Commuter. “Today we celebrate another first as we confirm that the Q400 combi aircraft is the ideal platform for our future fleet as we endeavor to offer comfort, reliability, and improved air transportation capabilities to our passengers, while supporting our local economies and communities with our extra cargo capability.
“Equipped with our new fleet of Q400 combi aircraft, Ryukyu Air Commuter looks forward to carrying many additional passengers as they enjoy travelling around Japan’s Okinawa islands,” added Mr Irei.
“We are proud to unveil Ryukyu Air Commuter as the launch operator of the Q400 combi aircraft and pleased to credit the airline -- with its innovative market insights -- as the major impetus for the launch. The Q400 combi aircraft will provide the right capacity for RAC’s passenger demands as well as the additional cargo service to stimulate the local economies,” said Andy Solem, Vice President, Sales, Asia Pacific, Bombardier Commercial Aircraft. “Recognising the need to develop Japan’s remote southern islands, RAC will play a big role in extending cargo and payload capability; creating a significant benefit as the new aircraft join the airline’s existing fleet of four Dash 8 Series 100 and one Q300 aircraft.”
“The Q400 combi aircraft provides unique opportunities for airlines operating routes with medium to low passenger loads, but with high cargo potential,” said Fred Cromer, President, Bombardier Commercial Aircraft. “Along with the recently launched dual-class and extra capacity options, the combi option illustrates Bombardier’s ongoing investment in the Q400 aircraft program and offers airlines unmatched operational flexibility in short-haul markets. The Q400 aircraft is now well positioned to once again reinvent the contemporary turboprop market through additional profitable growth.”
