Bombardier decided to create a different model in its line of commuter jets. But instead of a new airplane it is an innovative internal configuration.
Named CRJ550, the new regional jet is based on the CRJ700 model, but is configured with only 50 seats in no fewer than three classes of service – 10 seats in first class, 20 in premium economy and 20 in regular economy.
“The new CRJ550 model is the only solution in North America that can replace the existing fleet of aging 50-seaters, a market of over 700 aircraft,” said Fred Cromer, President, Bombardier Commercial Aircraft.
According to Bombardier, the CRJ500 “will feature a self-serve beverage and snack station and more overall legroom per seat than any other 50-seat aircraft flown by any U.S. carrier.”
Today there is a large fleet of 50-seat jets in the US, among Embraer (ERJ-145) and Bombardier (CRJ200) models, among others.
The new model already debuts with a customer, United Airlines, which ordered 50 units.
Reduced Portfolio
The CRJ regional jet family is now the only product offered by Bombardier in commercial aviation. Last year, the Canadian manufacturer sold 51% of the CSeries program to Airbus, which renamed it A220. Also the QSeries turbo-propellers will be transferred to Viking Air until the second half of this year.
