Bombardier to provide update on CSeries entry into service after a review of initial test activities

Bombardier reported (01-Aug-2013) the following highlights for its aerospace business for 1H2013:

• 57 aircraft deliveries, compared to 62 for the same period last fiscal year. Commercial aircraft deliveries were 25 in 1H2013, compared to 22 for 1H2012;
• 82 net orders, at a book-to-bill ratio of 1.4, compared to 146 net orders for previous corresponding period;
• Record order backlog of USD33.4 billion as of 30-Jun-2013, compared to USD32.9 billion as of 31-Dec-2012.

Commercial aircraft business highlights:

• CSeries: Integration of the CSeries aircraft's auxiliary power unit and the engines on the first flight test vehicle (FTV1) is "running smoothly allowing for testing of the aircraft's key systems". The latest software upgrades on the aircraft continue to be successfully completed. The CSeries aircraft's overall integration is "progressing well" and Bombardier is pleased with the results; however, the highly technical last steps are taking more time than initially anticipated to validate the overall systems and ongoing software integrations. First flight is expected to occur in the coming weeks. An update on the entry into service dates of the CS100 and CS300 aircraft will be provided following a review of the first flight activities of FTV1;
• Orders: In-June 2013, a conditional purchase agreement for 32 CS300 aircraft and options for an additional 10 with Ilyushin Finance Co was approved by IFC's shareholders, converting the conditional order into a firm order for 32 aircraft, with options for an additional 10;
• Customer Services and Support: In Jul-2013, Bombardier opened a new Regional Support Office (RSO) and parts depot in Johannesburg, South Africa to enhanced its worldwide aftermarket support network. The RSO and parts depot will provide regional support For Bombardier business and commercial aircraft customers, with the aim of capturing increasing opportunities for aviation in Africa as the operator base grows in this region. [more - original PR]

Bombardier: "Aerospace also performed well with increased profitability and free cash flow, and a record backlog. The CSeries development is making good progress with some of the major milestones already successfully met; the geared turbofan engines are running smoothly and powering key aircraft systems, and the latest software upgrades continue to be successfully implemented. We're now in the final testing stage in preparation for first flight in the coming weeks," Pierre Beaudoin, president and CEO. Source: Bombardier, 01-Aug-2013.