• Bombardier sales momentum continues in the Middle East and Africa region
• Ethiopian Airlines expects to lease new Q400 NextGen from Palma

Bombardier Aerospace today announced that Palma Holding Limited (Palma) has signed a letter of intent to acquire up to eight dual-class Q400 NextGen aircraft. The agreement would cover four firm-ordered aircraft and four options. Palma intends to lease four aircraft to Ethiopian Airlines.

Based on the list price, the potential contract value for Palma’s transaction covering four Q400 NextGen aircraft and four options would be approximately $282 million US.

“We are very pleased to become the first Middle Eastern lessor for Bombardier’s Q400 NextGen aircraft, and the first lessor worldwide for the aircraft’s dual-class configuration,” said Moulay Omar Alaoui, President, Palma Holding Ltd. “We are working to conclude lease structures with interested airlines including existing Q400 NextGen aircraft operator Ethiopian Airlines. We have already concluded commitments with Ethiopian Airlines that will provide the carrier with additional development opportunities.”

“Our customers’ success with their Q400 NextGen aircraft in the Middle East and Africa is testament to the aircraft’s unique ability to serve the diverse and challenging environment in the region,” said Mike Arcamone, President, Bombardier Commercial Aircraft.

“In addition, the Q400 NextGen aircraft’s comfortable, quiet cabin provides an excellent experience for passengers; and the dual-class option allows flexible integration into carrier’s network operations by providing seamless business class service to passengers,” commented Mr. Arcamone.

Ethiopian Airlines currently operates a fleet that includes 13 Q400 NextGen airliners. Bombardier’s presence in the Middle East and Africa currently includes more than 200 Dash 8/Q-Series turboprops, CRJ regional jets and CSeries single-aisle, mainline aircraft in service or on firm order.

Bombardier press release