Flybe, the UK low-cost regional airline, has signed an agreement naming Bombardier’s Q400 as its ‘aircraft of choice’. The announcement — made at the Farnborough Airshow — means that Bombardier will undertake a programme of enhancements over the coming months to Flybe’s 45-strong Q400 fleet.

Flybe CEO Saad Hammad said: “We are delighted that Bombardier will be supporting us in our mission to become Europe’s best local airline. This strategic agreement with Bombardier is an important part of our commitment to profitable regional flying. The Q400 is specifically optimised for regional routes, and the Flybe fleet will be one of the most operationally efficient regional fleets in the world.”

Ray Jones, senior vice-president at Bombardier Aerospace, said: “Flybe is one of the largest operators of the Q400 in the world, and we are pleased that it continues to show its long-term commitment to this aircraft. Embarking on a strategic agreement that will assist in its Q400 aircraft fleet enhancement will be integral to Flybe’s market competitiveness.”