While Bombardier is making progress on its Learjet 85 and has announced key suppliers for the Global 7000 and 8000, several statements from key executives have raised speculation of new business aircraft around the corner.
Steve Ridolfi, President of Business Aircraft, indicated that he would expect a CSeries Business Jet in the lineup and contribute positively to the CSeries program, with between 6 and 24 sales annually. However, he also indicated that with Bombardier’s priority on delivering airliners and launching the CS100 and CS300, the launch of the CSeries business jet will have to wait a bit longer.
While not providing details, Bombardier Aerospace President Guy Hachey indicated that significant investment will be forthcoming for Learjet, beyond the Learjet 85, in an effort to increase market share (currently about 18%). This is leading to speculation of a forthcoming new aircraft announcement in the works – but we’ll need to stay tuned to find out when, and more details.
Guy Hachey also said that they had enough in their plate right now: CS100/300, Lear 85, Global 7000/8000. Maybe we can expect a re-engining of the older members of the Learjet or Challenger families. I don’t know.
Anyway, I am not worried for the Business Aircraft division. What needs Bombardier’s full attention right now is the poor showing in terms of sales for the entire Commercial Aircraft division. They have been too long without a chief salesman and I hope they will soon find a suitable candidate to replace President Gary Scott who retired on a short notice, and Senior VP Eric Martel who was promoted President, Customer Services to replace James Hoblyn who passed away unexpectedly.
Yes, their plate is indeed full right now.
What I meant by “they have been too long without a chief salesman” is that before hiring Chet Fuller at the end of last year they had been over a year without one. But now it’s the President and the Senior VP positions that need to be filled. No wonder they can’t sell anything anymore!