RwandAir gets first of gleaming new jets

National carrier Rwandair is set to make a huge new addition to its fleet of planes.

Bombardier Aerospace, manufacturers of the CRJ900 NextGen regional jets ordered by RwandAir, have confirmed that delivery of the luxurious, state-of-the-art airliner will be realized in a matter of days.

This was confirmed yesterday by RwandAir CEO John Mirenge, who was in Canada to officially receive the jet from its makers.

During a ceremony to officially hand over the plane at Bombardier’s Mirabel, Québec facility where the CRJ Series aircraft are manufactured, the RwandAir CEO enthused about the impact the jet is expected to have.

“We are very proud to introduce the CRJ900 NextGen aircraft to East Africa. Our 50-seat CRJ200 aircraft has helped expand our markets to the point where larger capacity aircraft are required to meet passenger demand.”

“The CRJ900 NextGen jetliner is a natural progression from the CRJ200 aircraft that has served us so well. In addition, the larger aircraft have a two-class, 75-seat interior that will allow us to offer a premium service” Mirenge was quoted as saying.

The ceremony was attended by Rwanda’s High Commissioner to Canada Edda Mukabagwiza, John Mirenge, Chief Executive Officer, RwandAir, along with other representatives from the airline; officials from the government of Rwanda; Mike Arcamone, President, Bombardier Commercial Aircraft and several Bombardier executives and staff.

This continues an impressive growth cycle for RwandAir, which is regarded as the fastest growing airline in Africa.

RwandAir’s order for the CRJ900 NextGen aircraft, along with options for two additional CRJ900 NextGen aircraft, was announced on March 19, 2012.

Bombardier’s CRJ Series jetliners are the world’s most successful family of regional aircraft, with some 1,735 in service or ordered as of September 30, 2012. Worldwide, CRJ Series aircraft are in service with more than 60 airlines.

Bombardier is the world’s only manufacturer of both planes and trains.