Aircraft
Bombardier Sees Big Potential for C Series in Middle East
Although positive reaction to Airbus’s involvement bodes well for the new narrowbody, airplane stands on its own merits, says Bombardier
Latvia's Air Baltic launched CS300 services between Riga and Abu Dhabi on October 29. (Photo: Bombardier)
Latvia's Air Baltic launched CS300 services between Riga and Abu Dhabi on October 29. (Photo: Bombardier)

Bombardier has gone to great lengths to market the C Series as a small narrowbody airliner rather than a regional jet, and for good reason. In the Middle East, where for various reasons RJs historically have experienced trouble gaining a foothold, that message carries particular resonance. Not only have GE CF-34-powered regional jets suffered from a reputation for poor reliability due to the effects of the harsh natural environment, somewhat negative passenger perceptions of such small airplanes rightly or wrongly still prevail in the region. As a result, Bombardier takes special care to market the airplane as a mainline jet, and highlight the comfort of its relatively spacious five-seat-abreast cabin.