Bombardier wins Saudi contract for up to 60 business jets

Bombardier has secured a provisional order for up to 60 business jets from Saudi Arabia’s The Helicopter Company, part of a broader set of deals announced this week at the Farnborough International Airshow in England. Montreal-based Bombardier said it signed a letter of intent for 12 aircraft and purchase options for 48 more, covering Challenger 3500, Global 5500, and Global 8000 models. The operator, owned by Saudi Arabia’s sovereign wealth fund, said the expansion into fixed-wing aircraft is intended to meet growing demand for private and general aviation. Bombardier stated the initial purchase is worth US$568 million at list prices, including standard equipment and interiors, while individual transactions are negotiated. Bombardier CEO Éric Martel called it an endorsement of the company’s aircraft and its long-term commitment to growth in the Kingdom. The article also reported other Canadian aerospace wins at Farnborough, including VTOL and engine overhaul agreements.