The CS300 commercial aircraft has flown into Belfast following a thrilling world debut at the 2015 International Paris Air Show.  On its first UK flight, the CS300 airliner touched down in Belfast for a demonstration at Bombardier’s wing facility.

On static display alongside the facility where the aircraft wings are manufactured and assembled, the CS300 airliner has been unveiled to Northern Ireland ministers and representatives of the UK Government, key supporters of the C Series aircraft programme in Belfast, and Bombardier employees, suppliers and customers.

Bombardier investment of £520 million, the largest single inward investment in Northern Ireland, has facilitated research, design, manufacture and assembly of the C Series aircraft wings, including a purpose-built 600,000 square feet facility.  The innovative carbon-fibre composite technology, developed in Belfast to produce the wings, enables both material and aircraft weight savings, contributing significantly to the C Series airliner’s game-changing economic and environmental credentials.

Hundreds of Bombardier engineers, operations employees and support staff have been involved in the Belfast C Series aircraft programme, which will generate more than 800 jobs during peak production. Around 200 UK suppliers, including Northern Ireland companies, are providing materials and services to the programme and many more are involved in supply chain tiers.

“We’re delighted to welcome the CS300 airliner to Belfast on its maiden UK flight.  It’s the first opportunity for all our employees to view the product on display and in flight.  They can see, at close range, how their innovation, expertise and dedication are shaping the success of the C Series aircraft programme.  We’re proud also to present the aircraft to our government and business partners, who are all playing an important role in the programme’s contribution to the Northern Ireland and wider UK economies,” said Michael Ryan, Vice-President and General Manager, Bombardier Aerostructures and Engineering Services, Belfast.

Bombardier press release