Canadian aerospace manufacturer Bombardier (Chalet CD61) announced yesterday that the C Series aircraft program is now on track as it readies for second quarter 2016 delivery and entry-into-service (EIS) with launch operator Swiss International Air Lines. Additionally, the CS300 has completed more than 70 percent of its certification activities to date, and is on target for full certification approximately mid-year 2016. Its planned EIS with airBaltic of Latvia is in the second half of 2016.

“It’s been a very productive start to the year with a lot of activity around the Swiss team completing its initial phase of training on-site for pilots, ground and maintenance crews,” said Fred Cromer, president of Bombardier Commercial Aircraft. “Additionally, components arrived this month and the first CS300 aircraft for launch customer airBaltic is now in production. It’s great to know we’re pacing to meet our program and customer targets for the year.”

As the second CS300 flight test vehicle prepares for first flight, Rob Dewar, v-p, C Series aircraft program, Bombardier Commercial Aircraft, said, “This last flight test vehicle is dedicated to cabin and interior certification, but we foresee a smooth road due to the flight crew’s familiarity with the CS100 aircraft and the high degree of commonality between the two models.”

The C Series aircraft has a maximum range of up to 3,300 nm. To date, Bombardier has secured orders and commitments for 603 C Series aircraft, which includes firm orders for 243.