On its first UK flight, the CS300 airliner touched down in Belfast for a demonstration at Bombardier’s wing facility.
On static display alongside the facility where the aircraft wings are manufactured and assembled, the CS300 airliner was unveiled to Northern Ireland ministers, UK Government representatives, key supporters of the CSeries aircraft programme in Belfast, and Bombardier employees, suppliers and customers.
The company has invested £520 million — the largest single inward investment in Northern Ireland — in the research, design, manufacture and assembly of the CSeries aircraft wings, including a purpose-built 600,000ft2 facility.
The carbon fibre composite technology, developed in Belfast to produce the wings, saves both material and aircraft weight, contributing significantly to the CSeries airliner’s game-changing economic and environmental credentials.
Hundreds of Bombardier employees have been involved in the Belfast CSeries aircraft programme, which will generate more than 800 jobs during peak production. Around 200 UK suppliers are providing materials and services to the programme.
Michael Ryan, vice-president and general manager of Bombardier Aerostructures and Engineering Services, said: “We are delighted to welcome the CS300 airliner to Belfast on its maiden UK flight. It is the first opportunity for all our employees to view the product on display and in flight.
"They can see at close range how their innovation, expertise and dedication are shaping the success of the CSeries aircraft programme. We are also proud to present the aircraft to our government and business partners, who are all playing an important role in the programme’s contribution to the Northern Ireland and wider UK economies.”