Bombardier Aerospace announced today that low-cost carrier Nok Air of Thailand has converted two previously booked Q400 NextGen aircraft options to firm orders. The options were acquired under a contract announced on November 19, 2013 that also included two firm-ordered aircraft and four purchase rights. At that time, Bombardier also confirmed that Nok Air would be the launch customer for the new extra capacity seating option of the Q400 NextGen turboprop that will allow the aircraft to accommodate up to 86 passengers.

Based on the list price of the Q400 NextGen airliner, the firm order is valued at approximately $64 million US.

“With its recent aircraft purchases and newly sealed partnerships, Nok Air is at a crossroad to become a major player in Southeast Asia’s low-cost carrier arena,” said Patee Sarasin, Chief Executive Officer, Nok Air. “The extra capacity Q400 NextGen turboprop, with its jet-like speed, will not only be highly profitable to our operations but will also bring added productivity and flexibility to our expanding network.”

“We are delighted that Nok Air is once again placing its trust in Bombardier, and this only a few months after signing its initial order,” said Ray Jones, Senior Vice President, Sales, Marketing and Asset Management, Bombardier Commercial Aircraft. “Today’s agreement further solidifies Nok Air’s position as the launch customer for the Q400 NextGen aircraft in the new extra capacity seating configuration, which boasts up to a 17 per cent seat-cost advantage for operators compared to its closest turboprop competitor.

“The Q400 NextGen airliner’s best-in-class seat mile costs and superior flexibility ideally complement Nok Air’s growth strategy, and we are honoured to support the carrier’s long-term development,” added Mr. Jones.

Bombardier press release