Bombardier Aerospace announced today that India’s number one low-cost carrier, SpiceJet has taken delivery of the first two of 15 Q400 NextGen turboprop aircraft ordered in December 2010.

“SpiceJet’s order was a breakthrough for our Q400 NextGen turboprop in the Indian market, and Bombardier’s portfolio of commercial aircraft and customer services continues to be well positioned to support the development of India’s airline network,” said Chet Fuller, Senior Vice President, Sales, Marketing and Asset Management, Bombardier Commercial Aircraft, during a ceremony held yesterday at Bombardier Aerospace’s Toronto facility, where the Q400 NextGen aircraft is manufactured.

SpiceJet will use its Q400 NextGen aircraft for high-frequency, point-to-point services to regional cities, complementing its larger jet aircraft that connect major Indian cities. SpiceJet currently serves 22 destinations in India, Nepal and Sri Lanka.

“As India experiences substantial growth, many cities and industrial towns remain underserved,” said Kalanithi Maran, Chairman, SpiceJet. “SpiceJet is focused on connecting these burgeoning areas with more than 60 airports that could not be served by larger jets. After an evaluation of all the aircraft in the 60- to 80-seat category, we selected the Q400 NextGen aircraft, which combines excellent reliability, economics and passenger comfort.”

SpiceJet has also signed a 10-year agreement under Bombardier’s comprehensive SmartParts program that will provide a wide spectrum of cost-per-flight-hour maintenance for the airline’s full fleet of Q400 NextGen aircraft.

“The fact that we will be able to proactively budget for traditionally variable expenses and count on optimal repair turnaround times under Bombardier’s SmartParts program is another significant advantage,” said Neil Mills, Chief Executive Officer, SpiceJet.

Source and photo: Boeing