Bombardier showcases aircraft in Kazakhstan

Bombardier has showcased its Q400 turboprop aircraft in Astana, ahead of the launch of Air Kazakhstan.

The aircraft was selected by Kazakhstan’s new national domestic carrier earlier this year, with a total of 10 Q400s expected to be delivered to the airline.

Ahead of the first delivery, Canada-based Bombardier conducted a demonstration flight in the Kazakh capital for Air Kazakhstan officials and local media.

“The Q400 NextGen turboprop is ideally suited for the geographically diverse regions in Central Asia,” said Ray Jones, Bombardier’s senior vice president of sales, marketing & asset management.

“The Q400… is the most advanced turboprop on the market and has the speed and range required to service the Kazakh market with the highest standards of safety, reliability and passenger comfort. Importantly too, the Q400 NextGen aircraft has proven its capability in very hot, as well as extreme cold weather conditions, having been certified for operations in temperatures as low as minus 54 degrees C.

“With operating costs that are significantly lower than other in-production, 70-seat aircraft, the Q400 NextGen aircraft offers airlines a distinct advantage,” Jones added.

The Central Asia region is currently experiencing high demand for modern aircraft, as airlines look to move away from older, less-efficient models.

Air Kazakhstan will operate alongside national carrier Air Astana, which focuses on major regional and international routes.

sourced:traveldailymedia.com