Keywords
Citation
(2001), "Launch customer for RJX-100s", Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, Vol. 73 No. 4. https://doi.org/10.1108/aeat.2001.12773dab.028
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2001, MCB UP Limited
Launch customer for RJX-100s
Launch customer for RJX-100sKeywords: British European, BAE Systems
British European, a long established operator of BAE Systems aircraft, recently reinforced its commitment to the manufacturer, announcing plans to become European launch customer of its new Avro RJX. The airline has signed an MoU for 12 new 112-seat RJX-100s, plus eight options, in a deal valued at over $600 million.
British European, formerly Jersey European, operates a sizable route network in the UK and Ireland from key bases in London, Birmingham, the Channel Islands, Belfast and Scotland. It also operates franchise services for Air France.
The MoU calls for deliveries to commence from April 2002 through to March 2006. The improved performance, increased range RJXs will start to replace British European's BAe146 aircraft from next year. The new jets will complement the airline's newly acquired Bombardier Q Series turboprops and CRJ, making BE's fleet one of the youngest in the industry.
A key factor in its selection is the aircraft's performance at restricted airfields such as London City and Belfast City Airports, where British European, part of Walker Aviation, is the major airline. The aircraft will also go to work on franchise services for Air France and it is the intention that several RJXs will sport Air France colours. These aircraft will operate in 100-seat configuration.