American Airlines has signed an order for 15 new CRJ900 regional jets with Bombardier Commercial Aircraft, with purchase options for another 15, in a deal valued at approximately US$719 million.
The contract is another welcome boost for the Canadian aircraft manufacturer, which last week confirmed a $332 million order by Ethiopian Airlines for 10 of its Q400 turboprops, with options on a further five, taking its orders within the past week over the $1 billion mark.
American has selected PSA Airlines to operate the 15 CRJs in dual-class configuration with 76 seats, including 12 in first class. The airline will take delivery of the first aircraft with Bombardier’s new Atmosphère cabin interior in the second quarter of next year. The new cabin offers an enhanced passenger experience and can accommodate the largest number of ‘oversized’ roller bags of any aircraft in the same category, says Montreal-based Bombardier.
Fred Cromer, president, Bombardier Commercial Aircraft, said the order “is a testament to the tremendous value that the CRJ Series provides to airlines in the North American regional market. With its outstanding economics and new cabin design, the CRJ900 continues to offer unique revenue growth opportunities, while delivering the most modern regional jet cabin features in line with today’s trends and requirements.”
